Question

Dermanyssus gallinae, an ectoparasite of poultry, causes

• A. Cerebral lesion in poultry birds
• B. Skin lesion in poultry shed workers
• C. Respiratory problem in poultry shed workers
• D. Egg drop syndrome

Hint:

Dermanyssus gallinae is a classic occupational hazard in poultry farms.
Because it is a blood-sucking mite that opportunistically feeds on humans, it is notorious for causing itchy, red skin lesions (papular urticaria) on the arms and upper bodies of poultry shed workers.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Dermanyssus gallinae, commonly known as the red poultry mite, is a highly destructive hematophagous ectoparasite affecting laying hens and other poultry species.
In addition to its severe economic impact on poultry, it exhibits zoonotic potential by opportunistic feeding on humans.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us assess the clinical impacts of Dermanyssus gallinae:
- In poultry, heavy infestations of this nocturnal blood feeder cause anemia, intense irritation, restlessness, feather pecking, and a significant drop in egg production.
- However, the mite does not remain continuously on the bird; it hides in the cracks and crevices of the poultry house during the day.
- When poultry workers clean the sheds or collect eggs, these mites readily crawl onto them and bite.
- In humans (shed workers), the bites of Dermanyssus gallinae cause a highly pruritic papular dermatitis (prurigo), characterized by red, itchy skin lesions (often referred to as gamasoidosis or avian mite dermatitis).
- It does not cause cerebral lesions in birds, respiratory disease in workers, or viral Egg Drop Syndrome.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, the correct option describing the effect of Dermanyssus gallinae is (B), skin lesions in poultry shed workers.