Entodermoscopy to Diagnose Sarcoptic Mange: Visualising the Mite-Gallery Unit.

BACKGROUND

Diagnosing sarcoptic mange in dogs can be challenging because the clinical signs overlap with those of other pruritic conditions. Entodermoscopy has emerged as a promising technique for the rapid confirmation of suspected scabies mite infestation.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the dermoscopic features of sarcoptic mange in a dog.

ANIMALS: A dog with sarcoptic mange was examined via dermoscopy after skin scraping confirmation.

RESULTS

Distinctive dermoscopic features included: the mite-gallery unit (MGU) and specific mite structures, such as characteristic 'Δ'-shaped gnathosomes, eggs and burrows. Stercoraceous bullets, wake signs and grey-edged line signs also were observed. Polarised and non-polarised light exhibited distinct diagnostic capabilities. Digitally enhanced dermoscopy provided additional details.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The MGU describes the anatomical and functional aspects of scabies mites as epidermal parasites and qualifies dermoscopy as a non-invasive diagnostic tool.