Feline Scabies

• Rare but very contagious
• Caused by Notoedres cati
• Grossly:
  • Erythematous papular rash -> scales, crusts, alopecia -> lichenification when chronic
  • Start on neck and ears -> head, face, paws -> generalised
• Microscopically:
  • Epidermal hyperplasia, spongiosis, crusts
  • Superficial perivascular dermatitis

Pathogenesis

Infection begins on the ear tips and spreads over the body, a notoedric skin infestation.

• Causes dermatitis

• Burrowing of females damages keratinocytes leading to cytokine release

• Hypersensitivity reaction may occur
  • Eosinophils