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Case Reports
. 2013;3(1):53-5.
Epub 2013 May 20.

Digit loss due to Demodex spp. infestation in a dog: clinical and pathological features

F Grandi  1 , A Pasternak  2 , H E O Beserra  3
Affiliations
Case Reports

Digit loss due to Demodex spp. infestation in a dog: clinical and pathological features

F Grandi et al. Open Vet J. 2013.

Abstract

Here we describe a rare clinical manifestation of canine pododemodicosis. A dog was presented with pedal erythema, scaling, crusting, severe edema and digit loss. The following diseases were taken into account for the differential diagnosis: pododemodicosis, lethal acrodermatitis, zinc responsive dermatosis and pemphigus foliaceus. Results from skin biopsies revealed the presence of Demodex spp. of mites in the follicular infundibula and a severe inflammatory process (pododemodicosis). Upon the acaricidal treatment, the patient exhibited favorable signs of clinical improvement.

Keywords: Acaricidal treatment; Canine; Parasite; Pododemodicosis; Skin.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
A gross photograph of the examined dog, Bull Terrier, prior to the treatment. The “flat feet” appearance and the loss of the digit in the right thoracic limb are clearly evident.
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Histological section from the skin biopsy of the case under investigation. Various stages of the Demodex spp. of mites can be clearly visualized in the hair follicles (H&E staining, 50x magnification).
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
A gross photograph of the examined dog after the acaricidal treatment. Note the significant improvement in the appearance of the feet after 4 weeks of the treatment. Also, loss of the digit in the right thoracic limb is clearly evident in this photograph.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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