Report of a case of Acariasis in an African pygmy hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) in Maracay, Venezuela

Authors: Mariely Sanoja-Rondón, Diego Augusto Dacak-Aguilera, Sergio Emiro Rivera-Pirela, Mónica Hitomi Lucero-Suzuki, Felipe Rosa Cunha, Renzo Andrés Venturo-Barriga, Jorge Guzmán-Rodríguez, Andrés Renato Ordoñez.

Keywords: african pygmy hedgehog, Atelerix albiventris, caparinia tripilis, ivermectin, acariasis, fipronil.

Link to article

Abstract:

The African pygmy hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) is an insectivorous mammal of nocturnal habits considered within the new pets. The objective of this report was to describe a untold case of a 4-month-old male African pygmy hedgehog infested with Caparinia tripilis in the Maracay City from Venezuela. The clinical examination shows evidence of itching, scratching, and areas with a loss of density of spikes and delicate whitish crusts in the size of the face and legs. Skin scrapings were performed, and samples were collected for laboratory analysis. Microscopy revealed the presence of the mite C. tripilis. Ivermectin in suspension was used at a dose of 0.2 milligrams·kilograms-1 per oral (PO) once a day (d), SID (semel in die), for three d and continued once a week (wk) for three wk, in conjunction with topical Fipronil every ten d, for one month. Likewise, it was recommended to improve the hygiene of the cage and the environment. This led to the resolution of the dermatological clinical picture and, as a consequence, the growth of the spikes. This combination proved effective 30 d after treatment, assessed by negative skin scrapings: this being his last evaluation. Oral Ivermectin and topical Fipronil combined were non-invasive and less stressful for the patient.