Pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of amphibian chytridiomycosis.

Chytridiomycosis, caused by the chytridiomycete fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, is an important pathogen of amphibians in captivity and is a major concern for global conservation of amphibians. The organism infects keratinized epithelial cells of amphibian skin and causes disease and mortality by interfering with important skin functions, especially electrolyte balance. Primary treatments are with antifungal medications applied in a topical bath solution, and itraconazole is the most commonly used agent, although several different options are available. Supportive treatment of the clinically ill patient is necessary for success, with particular attention to electrolyte therapy.