SHEET Canine demodicosis
Health info sheet
Canine demodicosis
Demodicosis is due to the presence of an elongated mite of the genus Demodex which lives in the hair follicles or on the surface of the skin depending on the different species.
The parasitic cycle (mating, egg laying, larval stages then adult stage) takes place on the animal.
The parasitic cycle (mating, egg laying, larval stages then adult stage) takes place on the animal.
Transmission from one dog to another occurs at the time of whelping. The drop in the mother's immunity at this time favors the multiplication of the parasite on the surface of her skin. This one passes on the puppies during the first days of life. The progressive development of the immune system of puppies allows for parasite control.
It may happen that some puppies do not immunize properly which leads to the multiplication of Demodex resulting in a juvenile form of demodicosis. This form is most generally a localized form, possibly multicentric (several sites affected) with hair loss, presence of scales, most often without itching.
These juvenile forms may regress spontaneously as the puppy's immune system develops.
It may happen that some puppies do not immunize properly which leads to the multiplication of Demodex resulting in a juvenile form of demodicosis. This form is most generally a localized form, possibly multicentric (several sites affected) with hair loss, presence of scales, most often without itching.
These juvenile forms may regress spontaneously as the puppy's immune system develops.
Later, demodicosis may tend to generalize with involvement of the whole body. Bacterial complications can also occur. Hair loss, scales, pustules are observed.
The adult forms can result from a relapse of young demodicosis, a drop in immunity (partum, stress, associated disease, corticosteroid therapy, etc.).
In older animals, the appearance of demodicosis should always raise the suspicion of an intercurrent disease (diabetes, Cushing, cancer, etc.) leading to immunosuppression.
The diagnosis is based on the demonstration of the parasite under the microscope by skin scrapings. For certain particular forms, for example a demodicosis of the legs, the diagnosis is made on skin biopsies.
The adult forms can result from a relapse of young demodicosis, a drop in immunity (partum, stress, associated disease, corticosteroid therapy, etc.).
In older animals, the appearance of demodicosis should always raise the suspicion of an intercurrent disease (diabetes, Cushing, cancer, etc.) leading to immunosuppression.
The diagnosis is based on the demonstration of the parasite under the microscope by skin scrapings. For certain particular forms, for example a demodicosis of the legs, the diagnosis is made on skin biopsies.
Treatment has been simplified over the past few years. Several products in the form of anti-parasitic tablets used in the treatment of fleas and ticks have demonstrated good efficacy against Demodex. It is essential to carry out regular checks until the parasitic cure of the animal.
Finally, it is recommended not to breed adults who have had a history of demodicosis.
Finally, it is recommended not to breed adults who have had a history of demodicosis.
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