Clinical diagnosis and therapeutic management of mite-induced dermatitis in horses (Equus caballus) in the province of Tambopata: a case report

Resumo

Mite dermatitis in horses constitutes a dermatological condition of importance in tropical regions, where environmental conditions favor the proliferation and persistence of ectoparasites. The present study describes the clinical diagnosis and therapeutic management of a case of parasitic dermatitis in a female horse (Equus caballus) aged 2 years and 6 months, located in the province of Tambopata, Madre de Dios region, Peru. Clinically, the animal presented with intense pruritus, erythema, desquamation, crust formation, and localized alopecia in the facial region. The diagnosis was established by correlating the clinical findings with a parasitological skin examination performed through deep skin scraping, which allowed the identification of mites consistent with Neotrombicula autumnalis. Treatment consisted of the systemic administration of ivermectin, subsequently complemented with topical therapy. The clinical course was favorable, with a progressive reduction in pruritus, a decrease in cutaneous lesions, and recovery of the animal’s overall dermatological condition over a four-week period. It is concluded that timely diagnosis, based on appropriate parasitological techniques, together with the application of a comprehensive treatment approach, allows effective control of mite-induced dermatitis in horses. Clinical case reports contribute to strengthening clinical knowledge and to the development of therapeutic strategies in tropical regions.