Kuljetindennöistä

Kuljetindennöistä, scientifically known as Cheyletiella, are microscopic mites that can infest pets such as dogs, cats, and rabbits, and occasionally humans. They are often referred to as "walking dandruff" due to the characteristic scaling and flaking of the skin they cause, resembling dandruff. These mites are surface dwellers, living on the skin and feeding on dead skin cells and keratin.

The most common species affecting pets are Cheyletiella yasguri (dogs), Cheyletiella blakei (cats), and Cheyletiella parasitovorax (rabbits and birds). Infestations typically result in itching, redness, and excessive scaling of the skin, particularly on the back, neck, and base of the tail. In cats, the scaling is often most noticeable around the neck and back.

Transmission occurs through direct contact with an infested animal or, less commonly, through contaminated environments. The mites themselves are relatively large for mites, making them visible to the naked eye as tiny, moving white specks on the skin or fur, hence the "walking dandruff" moniker.

While primarily affecting animals, kuljetindennöistä can cause a temporary, itchy rash in humans who come into contact with infested pets. This human dermatitis is usually self-limiting and resolves once the pet is treated. Diagnosis in animals is made through microscopic examination of skin scrapings or tape preps to identify the mites or their eggs. Treatment usually involves topical or oral parasiticides prescribed by a veterinarian, along with thorough cleaning of the pet's environment to prevent re-infestation.