Mange is a type of skin disease caused by parasitic mites that infect the skin or hair follicles of mammals. It results in symptoms like intense itching, hair loss, scabbing, and skin inflammation. Mange can affect a variety of animals including domestic pets like dogs and cats, livestock, and wild mammals such as foxes, coyotes, and bears. There are different types of mange caused by different mite species:
- Sarcoptic mange: Caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites that burrow into the outer skin layer, leading to severe itching and contagious skin infection. It can spread to humans and other animals.
- Demodectic mange: Caused by Demodex mites that live in hair follicles, usually found in dogs; less contagious and often linked to immune system issues.
- Other types specific to certain animals exist as well.
In humans, a similar condition caused by related mites is called scabies. Mange mites in animals are usually host-specific and rarely infest humans in a way that causes full infestation. Mange is highly contagious among animals and can cause secondary bacterial infections if untreated. Treatment involves killing the mites and managing symptoms. In summary, mange is a contagious skin condition caused by mite infestations resulting in itching, hair loss, and skin damage in mammals including pets, livestock, and wildlife. It requires veterinary or medical attention for treatment. This description covers the general concept, types, symptoms, and relevance of mange in animals and humans. If you want specifics for a certain animal or treatment options, I can provide that as well. Let me know if you want more detailed information on any aspect of mange.
