Demodicosis on Chihuahua Mix Treated with Laser Therapy

Photobiomodulation/Laser Therapy

Demodicosis on Chihuahua Mix Treated with Laser Therapy

  • July 14 2024
  • Case Studies
Demodicosis on Chihuahua Mix Treated with Laser Therapy
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Author(s): Paula Yudelevit and Kerri Skipper, HART For Animals, Accident MD

Signalment 
Canine, 3-5 y/o, FI, Chihuahua mix, "Biscuit"

History
Brought in by Animal Control and presented with severe alopecia and skin irritation due to having been in a tight sweater for an unknown duration; suspected to be several months to a year based on previous owner history.

Diagnostics and Exam Findings
Hair and dry skin sloughed off while bathing and skin was very red and irritated. Positive for Demodex mites on skin scrape and the skin had extensive self-trauma due to scratching.

Laser Treatment Details
The Pyotraumatic Dermatitis protocol was used to deliver 4.5 J/cm2 with the large off contact treatment head.

Frequency of Treatment
7 laser therapy sessions occurred over 12 days.

Other Treatments
Treated with a single dose of Simparica Trio and a Cytopoint injection, along with 1-2 baths per week with BPO-3 shampoo.

Comments
Biscuit’s hair grew back entirely after about one to two months and her skin was clear. She did experience bouts of scratching but overall was much improved. Four months after her treatment was finished Biscuit was healthy and adopted into her forever home.

Treatment Photos

Progression photos of a Chihuahua with demodicosis being treated with Companion laser therapy from presentation to four months post-treatment

 

Presentation

Chihuahua with Demodicosis before laser therapy treatment

 

After 2 treatments

Chihuahua with Demodicosis after two laser therapy treatments

 

After 3 treatments

Chihuahua with Demodicosis after three laser therapy treatments

 

After 5 treatments

Chihuahua with Demodicosis after five laser therapy treatments

 

Four months post-laser treatment

Chihuahua with Demodicosis four months after laser therapy treatment