Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Otitis externa associated with Demodex cati - case report
- Journal:
- Arquivo Brasileiro de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia
- Year:
- 2024
- Authors:
- J.P.C. Ribeiro et al.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
An 11-year-old male mixed-breed cat had a rare skin condition caused by a parasite called Demodex cati, which led to problems in his ear. He showed signs of intense itching, hair loss around the right ear, and some redness, along with a brownish discharge. This cat also had a history of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and was being treated with a steroid called prednisolone. Tests confirmed the presence of the Demodex parasite, and after treatment with a topical medication given twice a month, his symptoms improved and the parasite was eliminated.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Feline demodicosis caused by Demodex cati is a rare parasitic disease, characterized by local or generalized dermatitis and less commonly by otitis. A feline, male, castrated, mixed breed, 11 years old, presented progressive cervical pruritus with alopecia in the caudolateral region of the right ear and mild erythema, abrasions, brownish ceruminous secretion and otopodal reflex. He had a history of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection and feline gingivitis stomatitis complex (GSC), in addition to continuous use of prednisolone. In the parasitological examination of the cerumen, different stages of Demodex sp. were found. Genetic sequencing revealed 99.33% homology for D. cati. Therapy with imidacloprid and moxidectin in spot-on formulation, in two doses at 30-day intervals, promoted remission of clinical signs and elimination of the mite.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://doi.org/10.1590/1678-4162-13004