Sarcoptic mange in crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) roadkill on BR-135 road in Bahia, Brazil: A Case Report

Sarcoptic mange in wild canids poses important challenges for both species conservation and public health, primarily due to the risk of cross-species transmission, including to humans. Cerdocyon thous is widely distributed across Brazil, except for the Amazon lowlands. This species occupies a range of habitats, including forests, savannas, grasslands, and areas altered by human activity, such as agricultural lands, pastures, and regenerating zones. Despite its broad distribution, there is limited documentation of sarcoptic mange in wild canid roadkill specimens, particularly involving Cerdocyon thous in Brazil. This case report describes the findings from an adult male Cerdocyon thous specimen found dead during a roadkill monitoring campaign. Upon examination of the carcass, extensive skin lesions were observed, primarily on the face, ears, and extremities. These lesions were characterized by areas of hair loss, dandruff, and crust formation. Skin samples from the affected regions were carefully collected, preserved in a container with 70% alcohol, and submitted to the Veterinary Parasitology Laboratory at PUC-PR (Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná) for analysis. Microscopic examination confirmed the presence of Sarcoptes scabiei, with both eggs and adult mites identified. Notably, live mites were still present on the carcass, underscoring the zoonotic potential of sarcoptic mange and the risk of transmission to other mammals, including domestic animals, wildlife, and humans. This also highlights its potential impact on species conservation. These findings emphasize the importance of enhanced epidemiological surveillance, environmental education, and integrated One Health strategies to monitor and mitigate the spread of sarcoptic mange in wildlife populations.