Demodicosis in red-handed tamarins (Saguinus midas)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Dermatology
• Primate Medicine
• Parasitology

Background:

• Demodicosis is a skin condition caused by Demodex mites.
• This case report details demodicosis in two nonrelated red-handed tamarins (Saguinus midas).

Observation:

• The tamarins presented with diffuse, multifocal, raised, nonpruritic, hyperkeratotic skin lesions on their appendages and face.
• Skin biopsies revealed acarids, and scrapings confirmed demodex-like mites.

Findings:

• Initial treatment with ivermectin at the endoparasite dose led to temporary resolution of clinical signs.
• Lesion recurrence occurred after multiple ivermectin treatments.
• Four treatments with amitraz dips resulted in complete resolution of demodicosis lesions.

Implications:

• Amitraz dips represent a potential effective treatment for demodicosis in red-handed tamarins.
• This case highlights the importance of considering alternative treatments when initial parasiticides are ineffective.
• Further research into optimal demodicosis treatment protocols for New World monkeys is warranted.