Introduction
Sarcoptic mange is a highly contagious and pruritic acariosis of the skin characterized by intense pruritus vesiculopapular eruptions with alopecia.
Objectives
To compare therapeutic efficacy of various agents against sarcoptic mange-infected dogs
Methods
Experimental design
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Group
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No. of dogs
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Treatment
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A
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6
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Ivermectin at 200 μg/kg bodyweight. Orally
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B
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6
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Ivermectin treatment + topical application of Annona squamosa leaves
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C
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6
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Topical application of Annona squamosa leaves
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D
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6
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Azadirachta indica and Curcuma longa paste (4:1) topical application
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Therapeutic efficacy of the different treatment regimen was evaluated on the basis of clinical improvement, negative skin scraping, and restoration of hematological parameters, oxidative stress and trace mineral status.
Results
Macroscopical examination of skin scrapings of dogs with sarcoptic mange revealed the presence of very high numbers of eggs, developing and adult mites per microscopic field before the start of the therapy. Hematological study revealed significantly (p ≤ 0.05) decreased levels of hemoglobin, PCV, and total erythrocyte count before treatment and restoration of values are observed in group B animals. Total leukocyte count was increased in infected dogs and the level decreased significantly after therapy in all the treated groups. Results of the present study showed restoration of sarcoptic mange induced oxidative stress and plasma zinc and iron levels.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ivermectin and Annona squamosa leaf extracts have remarkable restoration potential contributing to the deterrence of Sarcoptes-induced alterations in dogs.