Abstract:
The aim of this study was
the isolation and identification of
Trichophyton strains and species on various
selective culture media (Sabouraud dextrose
agar and Dermatophyte Test Medium -
DTM); morphological and cultural
characterization of Trichophyton isolated
strains; calves immune response consecutive
to the administration of the Trichoben
vaccine. The experiment was carried out
during October 2008 – February 2009 on a
group of 20 animals: 15 animals with
typical ringworm lesions and five healthy
control calves. For the isolation and the
morpho-cultural characterization of
Trichophyton, samples consisting of crust,
squames and hairs were collected and
examined by using enlightening solutions
and were inseminated on special culture
medium for dermatophytes. Ringworm
prevention and control were a difficult
problem. Various therapeutic schedules
gave inconstant results; thus, we took into
account the implementation of systemic
vaccination programs. We have used the
Trichoben vaccine prepared with a nonvirulent
strain of Trichophyton verrucosum
(min. 2.5 x 106 CFU), which was
lyophilized. Preventively, the dose was of
2.5 ml in three week –three month old
calves, while for older than three month
calves, it was of 5 ml, repeated 10-14 days
later for both age categories. For the
therapeutic purpose, doses were double.
Good results were observed since the first
administration, while after 28 days, healed
placards and lesion diminution, crust
thinning and detaching were noticed.
Vaccination efficiency for therapeutic
purpose was of approximately 95%.