Veterinary Vista's wordmark logo.
Insect Bite Hypersensitivity (Sweet Itch)
DermatologyEquineNew
Key Points
  • Insect bite hypersensitivity (IBH), also called ‘sweet itch’, is a seasonal allergic dermatitis of equids
  • Triggered by salivary proteins from biting insects (especially Culicoides spp. midges)
  • Signs include intense pruritus, crusting, alopecia and excoriations
    • Typical distribution is over the dorsal midline, mane crest, tail head and ventral midline
  • Diagnosis is primarily based on clinical presentation and response to insect control
  • Corticosteroids and antihistamines are used to control flare ups but the mainstay of long-term prevention is insect avoidance
Differential Diagnoses
  1. Pediculosis
  2. Chorioptic mange
  3. Atopic dermatitis
  4. Dermatophytosis
  5. Dermatophilosis
Overview
Aetiology
Clinical Signs
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Resources
Overview

Content Locked

Subscribe to Access
Aetiology

Content Locked

Subscribe to Access
Clinical Signs

Content Locked

Subscribe to Access
Diagnosis

Content Locked

Subscribe to Access
Treatment

Content Locked

Subscribe to Access
Prevention

Content Locked

Subscribe to Access
Resources

Content Locked

Subscribe to Access

Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →