Cheyletiellosis

• Caused by Cheyletiella sp.
• Occurs in dogs, cats, rabbits, humans and wild animals
• In dogs and cats: hyperkeratosis - dry, white, scaly dandruff along back
• May be asymptomatic
• Grossly:
  • Focal, multifocal or generalised red papules or crusts
• Microscopically:
  • Superficial perivascular dermatitis
  • Eosinophils

Diagnosis

A diagnosis can be made on clinical signs, including the presence of excess scurf, or dandruff. Scurf can be brushed onto dark paper, 'Walking dandruff' will be seen as mites will move when present in large numbers. Skin scrapings and hair pluckings from scaly areas are also diagnostic. Eggs may also be present on the animal.