Difference between revisions of "Cheyletiellosis"

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==Diagnosis==
 
==Diagnosis==
  
A diagnosis can be made on clinical signs, including the presence of excess scurf, or dandruff.
+
A diagnosis can be made on history, clinical signs in combination with demonstration of the parasite.
 
Scurf can be brushed onto dark paper, 'Walking dandruff' will be seen as mites will move when present in large numbers.
 
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.  
+
The parasite can be identified microscopically from skin scrapings, coat brushes and hair plucking form scaly areas.
 
Eggs may also be present on the animal which can be examined microscopically.
 
Eggs may also be present on the animal which can be examined microscopically.
  

Revision as of 13:01, 4 August 2010



Also known as: Walking dandruff

Description

A contagious disease caused by Cheyletiella sp. The mites live on the skin surface causing itching and scale on affected animals. Transmission is mainly by direct contact but the mites can also be transported between animals via a flea or lice. Also a zoonotic disease.

Signalment

Occurs in dogs, cats, rabbits, humans and wild animals. There is no breed, sex or age predisposition but it is often seen in puppies probably due to management reasons.


Diagnosis

A diagnosis can be made on history, clinical signs in combination with demonstration of the parasite. Scurf can be brushed onto dark paper, 'Walking dandruff' will be seen as mites will move when present in large numbers.

The parasite can be identified microscopically from skin scrapings, coat brushes and hair plucking form scaly areas. Eggs may also be present on the animal which can be examined microscopically.

Clinical Signs

In dogs and cats: hyperkeratosis occurs and dry, white, scaly dandruff can be seen along the back of the animal.

Sometimes cases may be asymptomatic

Pathology

Grossly: Focal, multifocal or generalised red papules or crusts occur often along the dorsum of the animal. Microscopically: Superficial perivascular dermatitis is present with infiltrating eosinophils.

Treatment

Prognosis

References