Non-feline transmission of sporotrichosis: a systematic review of published cases

Abstract

Sporotrichosis is a subcutaneous mycosis caused by species belonging to the genus Sporothrix. While zoonotic transmission has been primarily associated with cats, reports have pointed to sporotrichosis transmission by various non-feline animals, albeit infrequently compared with the aforementioned. These reports suggest the potential for zoonotic or environmentally mediated transmission routes with clinical and epidemiological relevance that have yet to be extensively explored. This systematic review organizes the current knowledge on sporotrichosis acquired by non-feline zoonotic transmission. A comprehensive literature review was conducted from January 1980 to March 2025, leveraging prominent databases like PubMed, SciELO, Web of Science, and EBSCO to identify cases of sporotrichosis transmitted by non-feline animals. A total of 78 cases of sporotrichosis transmitted by non-feline animals were identified in 26 articles. Most cases (76%) were transmitted by vertebrate animals, primarily dogs, whereas 24% were transmitted by invertebrates, such as mosquitoes. Lymphocutaneous presentation predominated among clinical manifestation in 80.7% of cases. Most frequently isolated species was Sporothrix schenckii, whereas Sporothrix brasiliensis was isolated only in infections caused by vertebrate animals. Most patients were young adult males, mainly related with hunting activities. Itraconazole was the most frequently used treatment. Sporotrichosis transmission route via non-feline animals is significant and frequently underestimated. Further research is needed to improve our understanding of the transmission mechanisms, focusing on distinguishing between direct zoonotic transmission and environmental exposure mediated by animal contact. Such enhanced understanding is crucial for improving diagnostic procedures in hyperendemic regions and strengthening epidemiological surveillance.