Diagnostic spectrum
Sarcoptes can also be detected microscopically (service 174 Parasitological examination/Ectoparasites). Thus, Notoedres, for example, is also detected.
General information
SSarcoptes scabiei is the only species of the genus Sarcoptes. The Sarcoptes mites that are found in the different hosts are considered varieties of S. scabiei. The varieties are mostly host-specific, yet these itch mites are able to spread to other hosts, but usually do not settle there permanently.
Sarcoptes scabiei varietas canis causes sarcoptic mange in dogs. Red foxes are considered reservoir animals. Occasionally, the mite is also transmitted to ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs, cats and humans.
Transmission occurs by direct contact between animals, but also indirectly via the contaminated environment. In dogs, indirect transmission seems to be gaining more and more importance. The whole developmental cycle of itch mites takes place on the host animal. In abraded skin material, the mites can survive up to 3 weeks, if the environment is damp and cool.
The mites burrow their tunnels into the horny layer of the skin. They prefer skin areas that are only sparsely haired, so they are often found on ears, elbows, lower abdomen and ankles. If the disease spreads, larger areas of the body may be colonised. The main clinical sign is massive pruritus, which is often intensified by heat.
In pigs, the mites spread beginning from the inside of the pinna. Bovine sarcoptic mange especially affects the head and neck, but can also spread to the udder. Mange causes loss of performance.