Treatment of ulcerative dermatitis in mice (Mus musculus) with gabapentin: 14 cases (2011-2019)

Abstract

BackgroundUlcerative dermatitis (UD) in the domestic mouse (Mus musculus) has been well characterized in laboratory mouse colonies but has not been well documented in pet mice. Affected animals are intensely pruritic and have characteristic ulcerative lesions on the head, neck, shoulders and trunk. UD is considered a multifactorial disease and can be difficult to treat. MethodsCases of ulcerative dermatitis in pet mice were presented between 2011 and 2019 to the Bird and Exotic Clinic of Seattle in which the owners wished to attempt treatment. All cases were treated with gabapentin, a γ-aminobutyric acid analog, at dosing ranging from 50 mg/kg q24 hours up to 300 mg/kg q8 hours PO, antibiotics, and antiparasitics. ResultsFourteen mice were eligible for inclusion. Of those, 13 showed an improvement post treatment. Response to treatment was partial to complete. Two out of 14 mice were successfully weaned off gabapentin. ConclusionsThe treatment protocol employed in these cases appeared effective in limiting the clinical signs of UD. Gabapentin at higher doses may have contributed to the decrease of the scratching behavior and secondary skin lesions. Underlying causes of the itching should be diagnosed and addressed in individual animals. Further randomized studies are required to confirm the effectiveness of gabapentin.