Itraconazole for treatment of sporotrichosis in a dog residing on a Christmas tree farm

Sporotrichosis is caused by infection with the dimorphic saprophytic fungus Sporothrix schenckii. The organism grows best in moist soil rich in decayi ng vegetation, sphagnum moss, and hay; in humans, risk factors for infectio n include rose gardening, topiary production, Christmas tree farming, and h ay baling. Sporotrichosis is rare in dogs and is usually characterized by multiple cut aneous lesions on the head, ears, neck, and thorax, although osteoarticular and disseminated forms can also develop. Itraconazole appears to be the treatment of choice for cats and humans with sporotrichosis and seems to be effective in dogs as well.