Mange

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Mange is a type of skin disease that is caused by parasitic mites. The mites that cause mange are microscopic organisms that burrow into the skin of the host animal and cause irritation and inflammation. Mange can affect a wide variety of animals, including dogs, cats, and humans.

Types of Mange[edit | edit source]

There are several different types of mange, each caused by a different species of mite. The most common types of mange include:

  • Sarcoptic mange, also known as canine scabies, is caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. This type of mange is highly contagious and can be transmitted from animal to animal through direct contact.
  • Demodectic mange, also known as red mange, is caused by the mite Demodex. This type of mange is not contagious and is usually seen in animals with a weakened immune system.
  • Cheyletiella mange, also known as walking dandruff, is caused by the mite Cheyletiella. This type of mange is contagious and can be transmitted from animal to animal through direct contact.

Symptoms of Mange[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of mange can vary depending on the type of mite causing the infection. However, common symptoms include:

  • Intense itching
  • Hair loss
  • Redness and inflammation of the skin
  • Crusty, scaly skin
  • Sores and lesions on the skin

Treatment of Mange[edit | edit source]

Treatment for mange typically involves the use of medications to kill the mites. In some cases, the animal may also need to be treated for secondary infections that can occur as a result of the mange. Treatment can take several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the infection.

Prevention of Mange[edit | edit source]

Prevention of mange involves regular grooming and cleaning of the animal's living environment. In addition, animals should be kept away from other animals that are known to have mange.

Mange Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD