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Mange is an irritation of the skin, usually including itching, inflammation, and hair loss, caused by microscopic mites. Mange is most commonly associated with dogs and other canines, but it can occur in other domestic and wild animals and, occasionally, in humans.
The mites embed themselves in the hair follicles or skin, depending on the type, making both detection and treatment difficult. It can be treated with insecticidal shampoo, topical or oral medication, or injections but it takes time and patience for repeated applications and almost always requires veterinary care.
Two types of mites produce canine mange, and each has its own symptoms.
Demodectic mange
Also called demodicosis, demodectic mange is caused by an overpopulation of Demodex canis, a mite that occurs naturally in the hair follicles of most dogs. In most dogs, these mites never cause problems. However, in certain situations, such as an impaired immune system, the mites can reproduce too rapidly, causing anything from mild irritation and hair loss on a very small patch of skin to severe inflammation, infection, and
This variety of mange is not contagious; these mites thrive only on very specific hosts (specifically, dogs).
Sarcoptic mange
Also known as canine scabies, sarcoptic mange is a highly contagious infestation of Sarcoptes scabei canis, a burrowing mite.
References
- UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine Book of Dogs, Ed.: Mordecai Siegal
- The Complete Dog Owner's Manual, Amy Marder, V.M.D