by J. Lang Wood

Created on: February 13, 2009   Last Updated: February 17, 2009

What is Mange?

Mange is a parasitic infection of the skin of dogs caused by microscopic mites. Canine mange comes in two forms: demodectic and sarcoptic. These mites are occur naturally in hair follicles and only become a problem when the immune system of the animal is suppressed by stress or malnutrition causing the mites to reproduce rapidly. Mites can be transferred to the puppy by its mother in the early weeks after birth. Some breeds of dogs are more susceptible to mange problems because of inherited immune system weakness.

Demodectic Mange

Demodectic mange, also known as red mange, is characterized by symptoms of itching, inflammation, and hair loss. It is caused by the mite demodex canis. It is not contagious to people or to other animals. In minor cases, demodectic mange can cause pustules that itch and are very uncomfortable for the dog. Mange most commonly starts on the face, around the eyes, at the corners of the mouth, and on the forelimbs and paws. More severe cases can cause crusting of the areas and pain, enlarged lymph nodes, and deep infections of the skin. Some dog breeds are more susceptible to demodectic mange.

Diagnosis of Demodectic Mange

Demodectic mange is diagnosed by skin scraping or biopsy, which is then examined under microscope for mites. Because these mites occur naturally in dogs, finding them in biopsy must be combined with visual examination of skin lesions to make an accurate diagnosis. Dogs with underlying diseases such as Cushing's Disease, hypothyroidism, cancer, and heartworm may be susceptible to mange.

Treatment of Demodectic Mange

Mange treatment includes dips, lotions, and shampoos. A 1% rotenone ointment is frequently used, and more recently a 5% benzoyl peroxide gel. Bathing with benzoyl peroxide shampoos is often recommended. A high quality diet and multivitamin with fatty acid also helps some dogs. If the disease becomes more widespread, Amitraz dips every two weeks are prescribed. Amitraz is a prescription organophosphate and must be used under careful precautions. Other medications used to treat demodectic mange are ivermectin and milbemycin oxime.

Sarcoptic Mange

Sarcoptic mange, also known as canine scabies, is caused by burrowing mites, sarcoptes scabiei, which are related to human scabies. The infection cause several itching which may result in secondary infections and tissue damage. This type of mange is contagious to humans and other animals. Suspected case of sarcoptic mange should be immediately treated by a qualified veterinarian.

Symptoms of Sarcoptic Mange

Sarcoptic mange is characterized by intense itching, crusting, infection of the site, and hair loss, usually located on the elbows, ears, armpits, upper limbs, and belly. It prefers areas of the dog's body that have less hair. Small, red pustules that develop into crusts can be a strong indication of sarcoptic mange. Because of the intense itching and biting of the areas, secondary infections are common. Diagnosis by examination of skin scrapings under microscope can be inconclusive. Sarcoptic mange is suspected in any dog with a history of allergies.

Treatments for Sarcoptic MangeThere are a number of methods of treatment for scabies. Bathing with benzoyl peroxide shampoo is recommended to cleanse the skin, followed by organophosphate dips, such as Amitraz and Mitaban. These dips are toxic to humans and must be applied to the dog with great care. Lime-sulphur dips are also effective. Selamectin (Revolution), Frontline Top Spot, and Frontline Spray are also used effectively on mange. Ivermectin and milbemycin oxime are often used to treat mange. Bedding used by an infected animal should be treated by a proper insecticide recommended by your veterinarian.

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