[Dermatophyte infections in animals (author's transl)].

Dermatophytes are more or less species-specific in animals. The diagnosis may be based on the microscopic specimen and is verified by cultural studies. This is subject to the restriction that fungus spores are only microscopically and culturally detectable during a particular period in which clinical symptoms are present. When the animal has had a primary infection, immunity will occur. This immunity is believed to play a role as early as spontaneous recovery from the primary infection. The stage of the disease should be taken into account in treating dermatophyte infections. The economic significance and risk of infection in human subjects are briefly discussed.