10 Dermatophytosis in a guinea-pig
CLINICAL EXAMINATION
Dermatological examination showed marked crusting and scaling around the left eye (Fig. 10.1), with evidence of inflammation of the skin below the left ear. There was also extension of patchy alopecia and scaling onto the dorsum (Fig. 10.2).
CASE WORK-UP
Skin/hair scrapes: Multiple skin scrapes were taken from around the left eye and the dorsum. These were mounted in liquid paraffin on a microscope slide with a coverslip and examined under ×40 magnification. No ectoparasites were seen. This absence does not entirely rule out ectoparasites and, in general, it may be useful to repeat the tape strips, or even consider prophylactic antiparasite treatment.
Further investigations aimed towards diagnosing dermatophytosis:
Sterile toothbrush: Samples may be obtained for microscopy or culture by grooming the hairs on and around the lesions with a sterile or new toothbrush.
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