An uncommon case of Candida tropicalis ‐induced skin infection in a horse with successful treatment

Abstract A mare presented with irritant skin lesions predominantly located over the crest, withers and back to the dock and loin regions. Additionally, the mare exhibited lesions near the anal region, measuring approximately 3 × 2 cm, characterised by erythema and rashes. A skin scraping was collected from the affected area and submitted for microbiological analysis. Fungal culture was performed on Sabouraud dextrose agar, yielding white, creamy, pasty colonies. The isolated yeast colonies were identified and their antifungal susceptibility was determined using Vitek‐2C automation. Candida tropicalis was identified, with susceptibility to fluconazole, voriconazole, caspofungin and micafungin. A topical antifungal ointment containing voriconazole was applied to the entire affected dorsal area of the mare. Following the clinician's recommendation, the ointment was removed on the seventh day post‐application. Progressive reduction in pruritus was noted, with complete cessation by the day of ointment removal. The skin lesions exhibited marked improvement, and the mare entered the recovery phase after 1 month of treatment.