University of Nigeria
ISSN: 2315 - 6856
e-ISSN: 2636 - 5553
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Volume 16, Issue 1: 2026 - Article 215
Abstract
A three-year-old ewe was presented with severe pruritus, alopecia, crusting and generalized skin lesions consistent with mange. The ewe also exhibited lethargy, pale mucous membranes and a poor appetite. Microscopic examination of skin scrapings revealed the presence of Sarcoptes scabiei mites, confirming a diagnosis of sarcoptic mange. Haematological evaluation indicated anaemia and leukocytosis, while examination of the stained blood smear showed Anaplasma marginale inclusion bodies within erythrocytes, confirming anaplasmosis. Treatment involved the administration of ivermectin to target the sarcoptic mange, along with long-acting oxytetracycline to manage anaplasmosis. Supportive care included nutritional supplementation and wound management. Clinical improvement was observed within three weeks, with resolution of pruritus and normalization of haematological parameters. This case highlights the importance of thorough diagnostic evaluation in animals presenting with dermatological and systemic signs, emphasizing the potential for concurrent infections to complicate clinical presentations and thus affect therapeutic strategies. This report underscores the need for integrated treatment protocols in veterinary practice, particularly for mixed infections involving parasitic and bacterial pathogens in livestock.
Keywords: Anaplasma ovis; Sarcoptes scabiei; Mixed infection; Sheep, Skin lesions; Haematology alterations.
How to cite this article:
Abdullahi AM, Maina UA, Galadima HB and Ngulde SI (2025). Case report of sarcoptic mange and anaplasmosis in a three-year-old ewe in Maiduguri, Nigeria. Journal of Veterinary and Applied Sciences, 16(1): 1316 – 1322.
*Correspondence: E-mail: mainaumar62@unimaid.edu.ng Phone: +2348066233100

Case report of sarcoptic mange and anaplasmosis in a three-year-old ewe in Maiduguri, Nigeria
Adama M. Abdullahi 1, Umar A. Maina 1, 2 *, Haruna B. Galadima 3 and Saidu I. Ngulde 2
1 Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Maiduguri, PMB 1069, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria.
2 Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maiduguri, PMB 1069, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria
3 Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maiduguri, PMB 1069 Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria.
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