A case of an apparent infestation by Proisotoma spp. springtails (Collembola: Isotomidae) in a cat.

Abstract

This case report is presumed to be the first case of infestation of a cat by springtails which are small arthropods closely related to insects. The organisms, found by skin scrapings, were identified as Proisotoma spp. (Collembola: Isotomidae). The cat presented with dermatological lesions (itchy, furfuraceous dermatitis), and we speculate that they were due to this infestation. The pathogenic role of the Collembola was hypothesized because of the large number of organisms, the presence of eggs indicating an active reproduction cycle, the lack of other pathogens (fleas, mites or lice) and the clinical recovery accompanied by the disappearance of Collembola following treatment. The owner seemed to be affected by the infestation, because a few days after having purchased the cat, she developed a pruriginous papular dermatitis on the neck and the arms, which disappeared shortly after treatment of the kitten and a careful washing of all of its toys and other accoutrements.

• Authors: Massimo Beccati, Maria G Gallo, Elisa Chiavassa, Andrea Peano
• Journal: Veterinary dermatology (Vet Dermatol) Vol. 23 Issue 2 Pg. 157-61 (Apr 2012) ISSN: 1365-3164 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 22049948 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
• Copyright: © 2011 The Authors. Veterinary Dermatology. © 2011 ESVD and ACVD.

Chemical References

• Antiparasitic Agents
• Ivermectin
• selamectin

Topics

• Animals
• Antiparasitic Agents (therapeutic use)
• Cat Diseases (drug therapy, parasitology, pathology)
• Cats
• Ectoparasitic Infestations (drug therapy, pathology, veterinary)
• Insecta (classification)
• Ivermectin (analogs & derivatives, therapeutic use)
• Male