Caused by a skin reaction to the microfilariae of Onchocerca cervicalis. Adult worms live in the nuchal ligament; their microfilariae occur in the skin, where they can cause a hypersensitivity reaction. Culicoides midges are the intermediate host. Die-off of microfilariae after ivermectin treatment can cause a transient worsening of signs.
Ventral midline dermatitis (most characteristic); patchy alopecia and scaling on face, chest, withers, and legs; depigmentation (vitiligo-like) of face and ventral midline; 'bull's eye' lesion on the forehead; pruritus variable; may contribute to uveitis (rare); usually improves with regular ivermectin deworming
Caused by a skin reaction to the microfilariae of Onchocerca cervicalis. Adult worms live in the nuchal ligament; their microfilariae occur in the skin, where they can cause a hypersensitivity reaction. Culicoides midges are the intermediate host. Die-off of microfilariae after ivermectin treatment can cause a transient worsening of signs.
Ventral midline dermatitis (most characteristic); patchy alopecia and scaling on face, chest, withers, and legs; depigmentation (vitiligo-like) of face and ventral midline; 'bull's eye' lesion on the forehead; pruritus variable; may contribute to uveitis (rare); usually improves with regular ivermectin deworming