Cheyletiella dermatitis

An annotated checklist of the eukaryotic parasites of humans, exclusive of fungi and algae

The classification of "parasites" in the medical field is a challenging notion, a group which historically has included all eukaryotes exclusive of fungi that invade and derive resources from the human host. Since antiquity, humans have been identifying and documenting parasitic infections, and this collective catalog of parasitic agents has expanded considerably with technology. As our understanding of species boundaries and the use of molecular tools has evolved, so has our concept of the taxonomy of human parasites. Consequently, new species have been recognized while others have been relegated to synonyms. On the other hand, the decline of expertise in classical parasitology and limited curricula have led to a loss of awareness of many rarely encountered species. Here, we provide a comprehensive checklist of all reported eukaryotic organisms (excluding fungi and allied taxa) parasitizing humans resulting in 274 genus-group taxa and 848 species-group taxa. For each species, or genus where indicated, a concise summary of geographic distribution, natural hosts, route of transmission and site within human host, and vectored pathogens are presented. Ubiquitous, human-adapted species as well as very rare, incidental zoonotic organisms are discussed in this annotated checklist. We also provide a list of 79 excluded genera and species that have been previously reported as human parasites but are not believed to be true human parasites or represent misidentifications or taxonomic changes.

Dermatitis caused by arthropods in domestic environment: an Italian multicentre study

BACKGROUND

Skin diseases caused by mites and insects living in domestic environments have been rarely systematically studied.

OBJECTIVES

To study patients with dermatitis induced by arthropods in domestic environment describing their clinical features, isolating culprit arthropods and relating the clinical features to the parasitological data.

METHODS

The study was performed in 105 subjects with clinical and anamnestic data compatible with the differential diagnosis of ectoparasitoses in domestic environments. Clinical data and arthropods findings obtained by indoor dust direct examination were studied.

RESULTS

Indoor dust direct examination demonstrated possible arthropods infestation in 98 subjects (93.3%), more frequently mites (56.1%) (mainly Pyemotes ventricosus and Glycyphagus domesticus) than insects (43.9%) (mainly Formicidae and Bethylidae). Strophulus (46.9%) and urticaria-like eruption (36.7%) in upper limbs and trunk with severe extent were prevalent. Itch was mostly severe (66.3%) and continuous (55.1%). Ectoparasitoses occurred frequently with acute course in summer (44.9%) and spring (30.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

Possible correlation between clinical and aetiological diagnosis of arthropods ectoparasitoses in domestic environments needs the close cooperation between dermatologist and parasitologist. This is crucial to successfully and definitely resolve skin lesions by eradicating the factors favouring infestation.

A case report of Cheyletiella infestation on a Whippet dog in Korea

A clinical case of Cheyletiella infestation on a dog born and raised in Korea is reported. A three-year old female Whippet was hospitalized due to a multiple fracture and displacement of the left scapula caused by a recent car accident. The mite infestation was not noticed at the time of hospitalization. The dog underwent multiple operations involving internal fixation of the fractured scapula with wire and a plate, followed by extensive chemotherapy with antibiotics and prednisolone. After two months of hospitalization, a pruritic dermatitis near the left scapula developed. Multiple white dandruff-like flakes were seen on the hair coat, especially over the dorsal spine and neck, and the dog expressed increased pruritus by frequently licking and scratching the affected areas. Local dense accumulations of skin debris that became crusty were also observed. Microscopic examination of a skin scraping revealed a heavy infestation of cheyletiella yasguri, as identified by the presence of hoks of the palpi and the heart-shaped sensory organ on genu I. Immunosuppression elicited by the extensive administration of prednisolone was suspected for the initiation of the generalized mite infestation.

Zoonotic dermatoses of dogs and cats

Zoonotic dermatoses in dogs and cats are an important cause of skin disease in human beings. In addition, human dermatoses may occasionally be transmitted to dogs and cats. The veterinarian and the physician form a critical "health care team" in the proper management of these disorders.

Walking dandruff and Cheyletiella dermatitis

Two patients presented with pruritus and rash caused by Cheyletiella mites that lived on our patients' cats. Only with veterinary assistance was the correct diagnosis made and effective therapy instituted.