Demodectic mange is a rather inflammatory parasitic dermatosis caused by an infection of the hair follicles by a microscopic vermiform acarine (Demodex canis).
- Symptoms: limited or generalized alopecia, the skin becomes very scaly and there is a risk of secondary bacterial infection (pyoderma). Especially affects young dogs because of contamination during the first few months of life (puppy-mother contact) while nursing. A lot of dogs are carriers (approximately 85%) but only a few develop demodectic mange. Often occurs between three and twelve months. Moist skin and poor breeding conditions are favorable conditions for demodex.
Localized form: limited number of nummular lesions often localized around the face (small patches around the eyes) and the limbs.
Generalized form: prognosis less optimistic. Irregular hair loss in more or less ovular patches, circumscribed hair loss, subsequent irregularity of the skin increases seborrhea, which causes a rancid odor.
Treatment: long, treated with Amitraz, administered by a veterinarian.
The epidermis has a high level of keratosis, accompanied by crusts on the oozing skin. Dog appears gaunt. Death will result in a couple of weeks if left untreated.
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