CASE REPORT: CLINICAL MANAGEMENT OF SCABIES COMPLICATE BY MALLASEZIA DERMATITIS IN A DOG USING ALTERNATIVE HERBAL THERAPY

Abstract

Sarcoptic mange complicated by Malassezia dermatitis is a chronic dermatological condition in dogs caused by skin barrier damage and the proliferation of opportunistic yeast. This case report describes the clinical management of a 5-month-old female Mini Pomeranian mix weighing 2.57 kg, presenting with severe pruritus, erythema, alopecia, crusting, and otitis externa with a characteristic odor. The diagnosis was established through a skin scraping examination that identified S. scabiei and an acetate tape cytology preparation that showed proliferation of Malassezia spp. Suportif therapy was administered using a herbal combination of turmeric (Curcuma longa), honey, and Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) given orally, along with topical therapy using neem (Azadirachta indica) shampoo twice weekly for 8 weeks (56 days). Clinical evaluation showed gradual improvement in the form of a decrease in pruritus scores, resolution of erythema and crusts, anagen phase hair growth, and a decrease in the number of Malassezia spp. on cytological examination. These results indicate that combined herbal therapy can serve as a supportive alternative in the management of complex dermatological cases, although clinical monitoring remains necessary to ensure therapeutic success.