Small Mammals Q&A 05
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This question was provided by Manson Publishing as part of the OVAL Project. See more Small Mammals questions |
A mouse develops pruritus and hair loss over its dorsum. The skin appears reddened with multifocal crusts and patchy alopecia. Another mouse in the same cage is asymptomatic. There is also a 10-year-old Yorkshire terrier recently diagnosed with allergic dermatitis living in the same household.
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What are the differential diagnoses for pruritus and alopecia in the mouse? | The causes of pruritus and alopecia in the mouse include ectoparasites, dermatophytosis, bacterial infections, barbering, pinworms and neoplasia.
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What diagnostic steps would you take to find the cause of the problem? | Perform skin scrapings, fungal cultures and skin biopsies to determine the cause.
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What is the organism shown above and how would you treat it? | This Sarcoptes mite was found after a skin scraping. Two to three injections of ivermectin is usually sufficient to cause resolution of the signs. Insecticidal dips may be too toxic, even diluted, for mice. Use any insecticide product in mice with great caution.
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What recommendations would you make regarding the other animals in the household? | Consider the other mouse an asymptomatic carrier and treat it with ivermectin. Since the dog may not be suffering from allergies but rather a mite infestation, it is important to examine all household pets and people for mites. The household environment should be thoroughly cleaned.
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