Scrotal Dermatitis and Its Potential Implications on Male Reproductive Function: A Case Report of Demodicosis with Secondary Bacterial Infection in a Dog
Diksha Upreti *
Division of Animal Reproduction, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India.
Naresh Sharma
BVSc & AH, ICAR- Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India.
Tanaya Yadav
Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India.
Shruti Dehru
Division of Medicine, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India.
Renu Sharma
Division of Animal Reproduction, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India.
Anita Jangid
BVSc & AH, ICAR- Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India.
Meiaishan Eliezer Lyngdoh
Division of Animal Reproduction, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India.
M. Pachaiyappan
Division of Animal Reproduction, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India.
Manish Solanki
Division of Animal Reproduction, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India.
Neelam Kalasua
Division of Animal Reproduction, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India.
Meraj Haider Khan
Division of Animal Reproduction, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Scrotal dermatitis in dogs is often considered a localised dermatological condition; however, it can have significant implications on male reproductive function due to its effect on testicular thermoregulation. This case report describes a 7.5-year-old intact male dog presented with a history of progressive erythema, alopecia and irritation in the scrotal region, accompanied by pruritus and frequent licking. Clinical examination revealed inflamed, thickened, and edematous scrotal skin, while both testes were normal in size, consistency, and position, ruling out primary testicular pathology. Diagnostic evaluation through deep skin scraping confirmed demodicosis, and cytological examination indicated secondary bacterial pyoderma. Haematological findings revealed leukocytosis, supporting an active inflammatory process. Based on these clinical and laboratory findings, the case was diagnosed as scrotal dermatitis associated with demodicosis and secondary bacterial infection. Therapeutic management—including systemic acaricidals, antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, topical therapy, and nutritional support resulted in marked clinical improvement. The case highlights that scrotal dermatitis may impair thermoregulation of the testes and potentially affect spermatogenesis if left untreated. Early diagnosis, prompt therapeutic intervention, and proper management are essential to prevent secondary complications and preserve reproductive function in male dogs.
Keywords: Scrotal dermatitis, Demodex canis, testicular thermoregulation, canine pyoderma, infertility