## Overview Sweet itch, or insect bite hypersensitivity, is an allergic reaction to the saliva of Culicoides midges. It is one of the most common allergic skin diseases in horses worldwide. Intense itching affects the mane, tail, and ventral midline. Rubbing causes hair loss and thickened, corrugated skin. It is seasonal, worse in warm months, and some breeds (Icelandics, certain ponies) are predisposed. ## Causes Hypersensitivity to midge saliva. ## Diagnosis Seasonal pattern and distribution of lesions. Intradermal testing can support the diagnosis. ## Treatment Insect avoidance is the cornerstone: stabling at dawn and dusk, fans, fly sheets, and repellents. Corticosteroids or other anti-itch medications for flare-ups. Immunotherapy is used in some cases. ## Recovery and Prognosis Lifelong but manageable with strict insect control. ## Prevention Minimize midge exposure during the insect season.
intense itching of the mane, tail, and ventral midline; hair loss from rubbing; thickened corrugated skin; seasonal; breed predisposition
## Overview Sweet itch, or insect bite hypersensitivity, is an allergic reaction to the saliva of Culicoides midges. It is one of the most common allergic skin diseases in horses worldwide. Intense itching affects the mane, tail, and ventral midline. Rubbing causes hair loss and thickened, corrugated skin. It is seasonal, worse in warm months, and some breeds (Icelandics, certain ponies) are predisposed. ## Causes Hypersensitivity to midge saliva. ## Diagnosis Seasonal pattern and distribution of lesions. Intradermal testing can support the diagnosis. ## Treatment Insect avoidance is the cornerstone: stabling at dawn and dusk, fans, fly sheets, and repellents. Corticosteroids or other anti-itch medications for flare-ups. Immunotherapy is used in some cases. ## Recovery and Prognosis Lifelong but manageable with strict insect control. ## Prevention Minimize midge exposure during the insect season.
intense itching of the mane, tail, and ventral midline; hair loss from rubbing; thickened corrugated skin; seasonal; breed predisposition