An Update on Pathological Changes in Canine Demodicosis

The study on canine demodicosis, conducted at the Veterinary Clinical Complex in Bikaner, Rajasthan, examined 240 dermatitis cases in dogs, identifying 25 positive cases of demodicosis through deep skin scrapings. Among these, 19 dogs had generalized demodicosis, while 6 had localized demodicosis. Hematological analysis revealed anemia, leucocytosis, neutrophilia, lymphopenia, and eosinophilia, while serum biochemistry showed hypoglycemia, hypoproteinemia, hypoalbuminemia, hyperglobulinemia, and elevated SGPT and SGOT levels. Mineral analysis indicated decreased serum zinc, copper, and iron levels. Histopathological findings included desquamation, degeneration of external root sheath cells, necrotic hair follicles filled with keratin and debris, and cross-sections of mites in the epidermis with hyperpigmentation.