Digit loss due to Demodex spp. infestation in a dog: clinical and pathological features

Here we describe a rare clinical manifestation of canine pododemodicosis. A dog was presented with pedal erythema, scaling, crusting, severe edema and digit loss. The following diseases were taken into account for the differential diagnosis: pododemodicosis, lethal acrodermatitis, zinc responsive dermatosis and pemphigus foliaceus. Results from skin biopsies revealed the presence of Demodex spp. of mites in the follicular infundibula and a severe inflammatory process (pododemodicosis). Upon the acaricidal treatment, the patient exhibited favorable signs of clinical improvement.