Nanoparticle-based therapeutics for the treatment of skin infections in animals: A comprehensive literature review

Animal skin infections pose significant challenges in veterinary dermatology, necessitating effective and targeted treatment modalities. This review explores the current landscape of skin infection treatments, emphasizing the potential of nanoparticles (NPs) as innovative therapeutic agents. The primary objectives are to comprehensively evaluate existing treatment modalities for skin infections in animals, highlight the advantages of NPs over conventional drugs, and discuss recent advances in NP-based therapies. To achieve this, a systematic review of the literature was conducted, encompassing studies published in peer-reviewed journals. The analysis focuses on current treatment approaches, recent developments in NP technology, and their applications in managing animal skin infections. While conventional treatments—such as antibiotics, antifungals, topical agents, and systemic medications—have proven effective, challenges such as antibiotic resistance (AR) and adverse side effects underscore the need for alternative approaches. NPs offer enhanced penetration, antimicrobial properties, reduced side effects, sustained drug release, and the ability to overcome AR, making them promising candidates for improved therapeutic outcomes. In conclusion, this review underscores the pressing need for innovative therapeutic approaches in veterinary dermatology. NPs represent a paradigm shift in treating animal skin infections, offering a multifaceted approach to overcoming current limitations. Harnessing their potential could significantly enhance the management of skin infections in veterinary practice, paving the way for more effective and sustainable treatment solutions.