Experimental Sarcoptes scabiei infestation in pigs: (1) pathogenesis

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Dermatology
• Parasitology
• Animal Science

Background:

• Sarcoptes scabiei var suis causes sarcoptic mange, a significant economic disease in pigs.
• Understanding the host-parasite interaction is vital for effective disease management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinical and immunological responses of pigs experimentally infested with Sarcoptes scabiei var suis.
• To evaluate the diagnostic significance and control implications of observed reactions.

Main Methods:

• Pigs were experimentally infested with Sarcoptes scabiei var suis weekly from birth to five weeks of age.
• Clinical signs, including excoriations and lesions, were monitored.
• Pruritus, eosinophilia, and skin histology were assessed to identify allergic responses.

Main Results:

• Excoriations appeared within seven days post-infestation.
• Encrusted ear lesions developed between weeks 3-8, spontaneously regressing by week 14.
• Generalized pruritus and erythematous skin lesions occurred in most pigs (weeks 7-11), associated with eosinophilia and allergic skin changes.

Conclusions:

• Experimental Sarcoptes scabiei var suis infestation elicits clinical and immunological responses in pigs.
• The observed pruritus and skin changes suggest an allergic component to the host response.
• Findings contribute to understanding sarcoptic mange pathogenesis, diagnosis, and control strategies.