How to perform a skin scrape

A skin scrape is a fairly quick and simple diagnostic technique that all veterinary nurses (VN) should be able to perform competently. It is an inexpensive diagnostic aid that is primarily used for identification of ectoparasites. Skin scrapes are easy to undertake, and if assessed in-house, can produce rapid results which permit prompt treatment of affected animals. As skin scrapes are the most frequently used tests in veterinary dermatology (Miller et al, 2013), assigning this responsibility to VNs can assist with the efficient running of busy veterinary practices. Skin scrapes are usually well tolerated and can be performed in the conscious animal during consultation. For fractious animals or for sampling of sites that are painful or technically difficult to sample (interdigital skin, pinnae) it may be worth considering sedation to ensure representative samples are obtained.

Skin scrapes are used to diagnose ectoparasites, such as Demodex spp, Sarcoptes spp and Cheyletiella spp mites. However, it must be remembered that the sensitivity of this diagnostic test is not 100% and if a negative result is obtained, particularly for suspected Sarcoptes spp infestation, a strict ectoparasite treatment trial should be performed to completely eliminate disease.