CHAPTER THIRTEEN: PRURITIC & INFECTIOUS SKIN DISEASES
Introduction
As massage therapists, we must be aware of which skin diseases are contagious, which are non- infectious, and which are zoonotic. Our hands, nails, equipment and clothing can all act as vectors for the transmission of skin disease, which makes hygiene and sanitization of equipment essential.
is a general term to describe any skin pathology.
describes any non-inflammatory skin pathology.
describes any inflammation of the skin. Dermatitis is usually
characterized by itching, redness, swelling and heat.
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis involves contact between the horse’s skin and another surface or substance, causing an inflammatory reaction. Dermatitis is classified by the causative agent. Contact dermatitis is not contagious between horses, but exposure to the same causative agent may result in multiple horses showing signs of contact dermatitis.
Horses that are ‘thin-skinned’ are more prone to dermatitis.
All types of dermatitis involve inflammation of the skin leading to
, redness,
swelling and heat of affected areas.
Generally, diagnosis of dermatitis can be made through clinical signs and symptoms and a history of contact with a known irritant. General treatment for dermatitis is removing the offending agent if known, soothing topicals, the administration of and topical corticosteroids. Cold hydrotherapy is also effective against cases of dermatitis. Prevention is to avoid contact with the causative agent (if known). Horses with dermatitis who itch are prone to opening the lesions and at risk of secondary bacterial infection.
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