Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
DNA test identifies unusual Demodex mite form in a cat
By Bernstein, Joseph A et al.·Published in Veterinary dermatology·2014·Long Green Animal Dermatology Center, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: PCR amplification and DNA sequence identification of an unusual morphological form of Demodex cati in a cat.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A cat with severe skin problems was found to have a large number of Demodex mites, which are tiny parasites that can cause skin issues. This cat had been receiving long-term steroid treatment for a blood disorder, which likely contributed to the problem. Tests showed that the mites were a known type called Demodex cati, but there was also a different-looking form of the same mite. The good news is that understanding these mites better can help vets treat skin issues more effectively.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND: Molecular characterization of Demodex mites is being used to identify mite species in dogs. This technique is now being applied to cat Demodex species, allowing for better characterization of the mites. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: Molecular diagnostics will clarify the existence of diverse Demodex mites identified morphologically. ANIMALS: A cat with generalized demodicosis secondary to chronic steroid treatment for erythroid dysplasia. METHODS: Skin scrapings demonstrated large numbers of follicular mites consistent with Demodex cati as well as a morphologically different Demodex mite with a blunted abdomen. The 16S rRNA DNA was amplified by PCR, sequenced and compared with available Demodex sequences, including Demodex cati, Demodex gatoi and an unnamed Demodex sp. RESULTS: A single PCR product was obtained, the DNA sequence of which was an exact match with D. cati. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: The shorter unnamed mite was not a different species in this case, but a different morphological form of D. cati. This report demonstrates the utility of molecular diagnostics to clarify the identity of mites that differ morphologically.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24909070/