Parasitic Perifollicular Dermatitis in the Egyptian Lesser Blind Mole Rat (<i>Spalax leucodon egyptiacus</i>)

Abstract

A field study of outdoor cultivated habitats was conducted in the northern part of the Western Desert in Egypt (Al Dabaa Marsa Matroh Governorate) between March 2010 and August 2013. Samples were collected from skin lesions occurring on the Egyptian lesser blind mole rat (Spalax leucodon Egyptiacus). Gross examination of the lesions showed alopecia and grey, circumscribed nodules, average size 2-5mm, in the hair-free thigh regions of the animals, varying from three to ten in number. Skin scrapings revealed numerous Lynxacarus egyptiacus, as well as other ectoparasites including Polyplax serrata and gamasid mites. Histopathological examination of the skin lesions showed features of demodetic perifollicular inflammation with aggregations of eggs in the dermis and in the keratin layer. Destroyed hair follicles were associated with fibroblastic proliferation and lymphocytic infiltration. Invasion with Polyplax serrata and gamasid mites resulted in keratinolysis, itching, and slight haemorrhage.This study is the first study to report on mixed lice infestations, and their associated histopathological changes, occurring in the Egyptian lesser blind mole rat. Since the population of this species is in decline, data relating to pathologies that occur in the Egyptian mole rat are of significance.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjvm.v12i2.21291

Bangl. J. Vet. Med. (2014). 12 (2): 197-201