Microsporum canis var. distortum

Supplementary description for Microsporum canis var. distortum, a dysgonic variant of M. canis with distinctive distorted macroconidia. Abundant growth and sporulation on rice grains. RG-2 organism.

Microsporum canis var. distortum is a zoophilic fungus known to cause infections in cats, dogs and other animals. It is a rare cause of tinea capitis in New Zealand, Australia and North America. Clinical disease is similar to M. canis . Invaded hairs show an ectothrix infection and fluoresce a bright greenish-yellow under Wood’s ultra-violet light.

Culture of Microsporum canis var. distortum.

Macroconidia of Microsporum canis var. distortum.

Clinical significance:

Microsporum canis var. distortum is a zoophilic fungus known to cause infections in cats, dogs and other animals. It is a rare cause of tinea capitis in New Zealand, Australia and North America. Clinical disease is similar to M. canis . Invaded hairs show an ectothrix infection and fluoresce a bright greenish-yellow under Wood's ultra-violet light.

Mycosis: Dermatophytosis

Further reading:

Rebell, G., and D. Taplin. 1970. The Dermatophytes. 2nd. revised edition. University of Miami Press, Coral Gables, Florida. USA.

Rippon, J.W. 1988. Medical Mycology. 3rd Edition. W.B. Saunders Co., Philadelphia, USA