Diagnosis of sporotrichosis in a donkey using direct fluorescein-labeled antibody testing

A 4-year-old female donkey residing in an open field in Indiana was admitte d for evaluation of facial lesions of 2 years duration. Cytologic and histo logic examination of exudate and tissue from the lesions revealed a pyogran ulomatous inflammatory reaction with numerous yeasts. Sporothrix schenckii was suspected to be the infectious agent; however, multiple culture attempt s did not provide positive identification of the organism. Serologic examin ation supported infection with S. schenckii. A specific direct immunofluore scent antibody test performed on paraffin-embedded tissue sections confirme d the organism as S, schenckii. Clinical signs resolved after appropriate i odide therapy.