Hookworm Dermatitis Research Paper

Hookworm Dermatitis Hookworm dermatitis is also called ancylostomiasis or uncinariasis dermatitis. Lesions occur as a result of the skin penetration of the third stage larvae of Uncinaria stenocephala and Ancylostoma spp. The larvae are located in the soil that the animals contact. Lesions are more often associated with Uncinaria stenocephala infestation. Uncinaria stenocephala rarely completes its life cycle by skin penetration, however, Ancylostoma spp can. The larvae enter the skin primarily at areas of scaling skin but, occasionally they may enter via hair follicles. Signs of Hookworm Dermatitis The condition is more frequently noticed in hookworm infested dogs that are housed on dirt runs with poor sanitation. Lesions are primarily located on the feet but, they may be seen on any area of the skin that contacts the ground. Erythematous papules are present initially but, chronically affected skin often becomes red, thickened and alopecic. The skin on the footpads often becomes thickened. The interdigital spaces may be red, and the feet may eventually become soft and spongy especially at the pad margins. The nails may grow faster, become deformed and in severe cases break off. Arthritis may be present. Itchiness is always present but it can vary in intensity. Animals are irritable and lick their feet.
A positive fecal exam for hookworm eggs provides supporting evidence but does not confirm a diagnosis. Skin scraping is an easy, fast, inexpensive and reliable method for the diagnosis of Pelodera