Guinea pig herdB88.-
Synonym(s)
DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
The guinea-pig weed caused by the strictly host-specific grave mites(Trixacarus caviae) is one of the most frequent dermatoses of this small mammal (White SD et al. 2016). The mange is accompanied by a typical clinical symptomatology of the animals: pronounced restlessness, itching, circumscribed, diffuse or spot-like alopecia of the affected areas, extensive skin thickening and increased scaling. The changes often begin on the head, but can also affect other parts of the body. Detection can be done microscopically from scraping material.
Trixacarus caviae may occasionally spread to the human skin, especially in close physical contact.
Occurrence/EpidemiologyThis section has been translated automatically.
Mostly children, animal keepers
LocalizationThis section has been translated automatically.
Contact points (arms, neck and abdomen).
Clinical featuresThis section has been translated automatically.
Clinically there are at the contact points, often grouped, about 0.2-0.4cm large, itchy, urticarial papules, often with central hemorrhagic crust formation. Gang structures are not detectable.
DiagnosisThis section has been translated automatically.
Medical history and clinic; mites are no longer detectable on the skin.
TherapyThis section has been translated automatically.
Antiparasitic therapy is not indicated in humans. Short-term treatment with a glucocorticoid externum is sufficient. Caution: Pets, on the other hand, must be treated by a veterinary (ivermectin/selamectin injection into the skin of the guinea pig's nacus).
Note(s)This section has been translated automatically.
Sarcoptes species that are foreign to the host are not able to permanently colonize the inadequate organism. They survive there for a maximum of 5-6 days. The mite bores into the stratum corneum, but does not dig any corridors and is not able to reproduce by laying eggs.
Caution: In case of stinging, itchy efflorescences, pet owners should always check their pets for ectoparasites.
LiteratureThis section has been translated automatically.
- Fuentealba C et al (1996) Mange induced by Trixacarus caviae in a guinea pig. Can Vet J 37:749-750
- Kutzer E et al (1969) Transmission of animal sarcoptic mange to human beings. Berl Munch Veterinary surgeon week 82:311-314.
- White SD et al (2016) Skin diseases in companion guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus): a retrospective study of 293 cases seen at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California at Davis (1990-2015). Vet Dermatol 27:395-e100.
- Zenoble RD et al (1980) Sarcoptic mite infestation in a colony of guinea pigs. JAV-MA 177: 898-900