A preliminary survey of ectoparasites of small mammals in Kuala Selangor Nature Park. (1/2)
Trapping of small mammals was conducted at 5 study sites in Kuala Selangor Nature Park (KSNP) from 20-24 June 2005. A total of 11 animals comprising 2 species of rodents, Maxomys whiteheadi and Rattus exulans were caught from 3 sites, i.e from an area of mixed secondary forest and mangrove swamp; an area of mangrove swamp, and from an area of lalang fringing mangrove swamp. From these animals, the following 7 species of ectoparasites were found: Laelaps echidninus, Laelaps nuttalli, Ascoschoengastia indica, Leptotrombidium deliense, Hoplopleura pectinata, Hoplopleura pacifica and Polyplax spinulosa. One of the ectoparasites found, L. deliense is a known vector of scrub typhus and thus may pose potential health risks to visitors to KSNP. (+info)Trombidiosis-induced dermatitis in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). (2/2)
During a routine blood collection at a wildlife management checkpoint, several white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) from Lake Russell Wildlife Management Area, Habersham County, Georgia, were observed to have accumulations of orange granular material around the eyes and mouth accompanied by serous exudate, crusting, and alopecia. Microscopic examination of the granular material disclosed numerous larval mites of the family Trombiculidae. Histologic examination revealed severe chronic diffuse plasmacytic dermatitis with intralesional larval trombiculid mites. Several stylostomes were also identified in the tissue sections. This paper describes the gross and histologic changes associated with severe trombiculid infestation in a white-tailed deer and suggests potential causes for this unusual finding. (+info)Trombiculiasis is a cutaneous infestation caused by the larval stage of various species of Trombiculidae mites, also known as chiggers. The larvae are parasitic and feed on the skin cells and tissue fluids of their hosts, causing an intensely pruritic (itchy) rash or papular eruption. The condition is commonly acquired in outdoor environments, particularly in wooded areas and grasslands. It is more prevalent during warm and humid weather conditions.
The symptoms of trombiculiasis typically appear within a few hours to days after the infestation and include redness, swelling, and itching at the site of the bite. In some cases, the bites may develop into pustules or blisters that can become secondarily infected if scratched excessively. The rash usually resolves within 1-2 weeks, although the itching can persist for several weeks.
Treatment for trombiculiasis typically involves relieving symptoms and preventing secondary infections. Topical corticosteroids or antihistamines may be used to reduce inflammation and itching. In cases of secondary infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. Preventive measures include avoiding infested areas, wearing protective clothing, and using insect repellents containing DEET or permethrin.