Endocrine Disruptors and One Health: Laboratory-Based Evidence From Turkiye

Hedgehogs are increasingly exposed to health challenges in urban and peri-urban environments, where close contact with humans and domestic animals raises concern for zoonotic disease transmission. Dermatophytosis is of particular relevance due to its impact on animal welfare, rehabilitation outcomes, and public health. However, reports on the northern white-breasted hedgehog (Erinaceus roumanicus) remain limited. This study reports 31 clinical cases admitted to a wildlife rehabilitation centre between 2020 and 2024, in Romania. Diagnosis was based on direct microscopic examination of KOH-cleared hairs and skin scrapings, revealing septate hyphae and arthroconidia. The affected animals (17 males, 14 females; 16 hoglets, 8 juveniles, 2 subadults, 5 adults) frequently presented in poor body condition (55% thin or emaciated) and 39% showed dehydration or systemic compromise. Clinical signs included alopecia, scaling, crusting, and hyperkeratosis, particularly on the craniofacial region, limbs, and ventral thorax. Treatment consisted of systemic itraconazole (10 mg/kg orally, once daily for 14 days). Outcome was favourable in 24 of 31 hedgehogs (77.4%), which fully recovered with regrowth of spines and restoration of body condition prior to release, while 7 died due to severe systemic compromise. In addition to confirmed cases, samples from 55 hedgehogs admitted in 2024 were cultured on Dermatophyte Test Medium (DTM). The findings of this study highlight the clinical variability and systemic impact of dermatophytosis in wild hedgehogs, its zoonotic potential, and the importance of early diagnosis, antifungal therapy, and supportive care for successful rehabilitation.