Fungal disease in reptiles

Fungal disease in reptiles is common, and can often lead to fatal systemic disease. Of the many fungal species isolated from reptiles most are environmental saphrophytes. Predisposing factors to infection include trauma to skin and mucous membranes, increased fungi in the environment (low temperature, high humidity), immunosuppression (stress, low temperature, malnutrition, overcrowding, poor hygiene), and prolonged antibiotic therapy. Pathologists should be aware of this, and specifically look for fungi in lesions, as superficial disease can often lead to systemic disease and death. Fungal and bacterial culture and therapy should be considered for wounds involving skin and the oral cavity. Examples discussed included fungal enteritis in a yellow-footed tortoise (Geochelone denticulata), fungal stomatitis and pneumonia in Otago skinks (Oligosoma otagense), and fungal dermatitis, stomatitis, osteomyelitis, and encephalitis in Northern tuatara (Sphenodon punctatus punctatus).