[4] The identification of rough-walled macroconidia, a hallmark of the Microsporum genus, lead to the dermatophyte being classified as M.

[5] Analysis of its DNA sequences by PCR shows M. gallinae is most closely related to Microsporum vanbreuseghemii and Arthroderma grubyi, both are also zoophilic fungi.

[9] During sporulation, septate hyphae,[2][7] with macroconidia with tappered tips, and club shaped microconidia are present.

[10] It obtains nutrients from keratin-rich skin, nails and hair, releasing enzymes during its digestion that elicit a host immune response as seen in ringworm.

[9] Microsporum gallinae causes a superficial infection[13] that forms white lesions on the wattles and combs of chickens.

[1] Roosters and chicks tend to be more susceptible to the infection, with fighting cocks having the highest rates of M. gallinae dermatophytosis.

[3] In rare cases, immunocompromised individuals form severe dissemination on the skin, instead of small localized lesions[3] as a result of handling infected animals.

[1][3] Topical antifungals, such as: Terbinafine,[3] Tolnaftate,[1] and orally administered Griseofulvin[1][9] have been used successfully to treat M. gallinae infections in humans and animals.