A retrospective study was performed on potbellied pigs with skin disease over a 22-year period. Thirteen of 190 pigs (7%) were examined by the Dermatology Service. Three different dermatoses were diagnosed: (1) sarcoptic mange, (2) yeast dermatitis of the eyelids (blepharitis) and periocular skin, and (3) presumed ichthyosis. Sarcoptic mange was cured with ivermectin injections. Yeast dermatitis was cured with a nystatin-containing ointment. Presumed ichthyosis was successfully controlled with applications of a moisturizing shampoo and moisturizing creme rinse.
Four species of Demodex mite have to date been reported as affecting the brown rat. This paper describes the finding of a possible fifth species. A pet rat was referred to a dermatology referral service in Queensland, Australia for evaluation of pruritus. Skin scrapings revealed the presence of numerous mites with the characteristic appearance of the genus Demodex, but with a truncated opisthosoma. Acaracidal treatment resulted in apparent clearance of the mites, but did not result in resolution of the pruritus.