Dermatophilosis
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Also known as: Cutaneous streptothrichosis
Description
This is a group of diseases affecting the epidermis caused by Dermatophilus congolensis. It causes a range of conditions in large animals including rain scald in horses and strawberry foot rot in sheep. The disease is associated with skin trauma, prolonged wetting or parasites. Lesions typically involve exudative dermatitis with scab formation. It is a zoonosis affecting humans in close contact with infected animals.
Signalment
Can be seen in animals of all ages but most commonly occurs in young animals who are chronically exposed to moisture. Affects horses, sheep, cattle, goats, pigs and rarely dogs and cats.
History and Clinical signs
Lesions commonly occur following heavy rainfall and commonly affects the dorsum of animals. Any previous trauma or damage to the skin can predispose to infection. Blood-sucking insects are also thought to be involved in transmission.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis can often be made on history and physical exam. Impression smears can also be useful when stained with either gram stain or Giemsa and examined microscopically.
Additionally it is possible to culture material from the crusts however this can be difficult due to the slow growing nature of the pathogen.
Pathology
Grossly: Papules, pustules, crusts may coalesce and mat the coat.
Microscopically:
- Hyperplastic superficial perivascular dermatitis
- Multilaminated crusts, alternating keratin and inflammatory cell layers
Prognosis
Good if animals are kept dry. Often re-occurs in wet weather.
Literature Search
Use these links to find recent scientific publications via CAB Abstracts (log in required unless accessing from a subscribing organisation).
Dermatophilosis publications since 2000
References
Merck & Co (2008) The Merck Veterinary Manual (Eighth Edition) Merial
4th year Veterinary Dermatology notes. Royal Veterinary college. October-November 2008. p60-64.