Sarcoptic mange (Sarcoptes scabiei) in wild canids (Cerdocyon thous)

Abstract

Crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous) are wild canids found in practically all Brazilian states. They usually live and hunt in pairs, but can be found in small groups, which favors the transmission of diseases such as sarcoptic mange. This study aims to describe the epidemiological, parasitological and pathological findings of two fatal cases of sarcoptic mange in C. thous. Two wild canids were necropsied and cytological examination of skin and crust samples and histologic evaluation of various tissue samples were performed. Gross findings included poor body condition and extensive alopecia with thick skin crusts interspersed by intensely reddened alopecic areas. The cytological examination revealed numerous mites with short gnathosoma and rounded idiosoma that were transversally striated and presented triangular spines on the dorsal surface, terminal anus, and short and thick legs, characteristic of Sarcoptes scabiei. Histologic examination of the skin revealed numerous tunnels into and under the stratum corneum of the epidermis containing high amounts of S. scabiei. The mites were associated with marked acanthosis and hyperkeratosis, and mild superficial dermatitis. The findings reveal that sarcoptic mange is an important disease in wild canids.