Trixacarid mange in guinea pigs

Authors: Jackson R, Townsend K
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 32, Issue 6, pp 95-96, Jun 1984
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: General, Laboratory animal
Subject Terms: Inflammation, Integument/skin/wool/hair/fur/feather, Disease/defect, Parasites - external
Article class: Correspondence

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Abstract: We wish to draw the attention of veterinarians to the presence of the sarcoptiform mite Trixacarus cuviue as the cause of a pruritic skin condition in guinea pigs. In 1983 this laboratory isolated this mite in four outbreaks of dermatitis in guinea pigs. Clinical findings included pruritis, scurtiness and thinning or loss of hair, especially along the back, neck and cheeks. In more severe cases there was scab formation due to self inflicted trauma. Careful examination of skin scrapings is required to avoid confusing T. caviae with Surcoptes scabiei. Both sexes of the former are smaller then S. scabiei and the female has a dorsal anus whereas both sexes of S. scabiei and male T. caviae have a terminal anus. In addition the dorsal setae of T. cuviue are simple, whereas in S. scabiei some appear as rod-like cones and spines. Collins has recommended treatment by total immersion in a 2.5%4.0% solutton of tetraethylthiuram monosulphide (Tetmosol, I.C.I.) at least twice, one week apart. Other treatments reported to be successful include…

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