Mites - Gerbils
Demodecosis
Demodex merioni is the species of Demodex mite affecting the gerbil.
Signalment
Disease is normally only found in young, old and debilitated, pregnant or under-nourished animals.
Clinical Signs
Lesions present as alopecia, scaliness and ulceration of the hindlimbs and tail.
Diagnosis
Deep skin-scrapings (to the level of capillary ooze) and microscopic examination with identification of the mite is an appropriate methos of diagnosis..
Treatment
Two injections of Ivermectin administered subcutaneously 7 days apart are reported to be effective.
Diluted Amitraz administered topically every 2 week, up to 6 times.
The environment should be thoroughly disinfected and bedding should be kept clean and changed regularly.
References
Bond, Hendricks, Loeffler (2009) Veterinary Dermatology RVC Intergrated BVetMed Course, Royal Veterinary College
Merck & Co (2009) The Merck Veterinary Manual (Ninth Edition), Merial
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