Endurance.Net Ridecamp Archives

Dermatophilosis or Rain Scald

    Horses exposed to hot, humid, or rainy conditions are at risk for 
development of rain scald. Rain scald (rain rot, dermatophilosis, or 
streptothricosis) is a summertime skin disease caused by the organism 
Dermatophilus congolensis. It is an organism with properties of both fungi 
and bacteria that infects the hair follicles. Because there is damage to the 
hair follicle and shaft, the hair will pull out easily in small clumps 
leaving pink skin. The lesions also might become scabbed over or contain 
pus. It is most common over the back, rump, fetlock, and cannon bone.

    The organism is contagious and can be spread by tack, equipment, or 
insects. Keeping horses clean and dry is effective for both prevention and 
treatment. It is also important to disinfect all tack and equipment to 
prevent spreading the organism. Antibacterial shampoos and rinses containing 
agents like chlorhexidine are effective for both equipment and animals. The 
use of ointments is not advised, as they tend to hold moisture in, while the 
goal of treatment is to keep these lesions dry.

Article courtesy of Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine.




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