A Non-Itchy, Spreading Rash With Hair Loss
by Ashley
(Atlanta, GA)
A spreading patch of hair loss that doesn't itch has a few common causes, and not itching doesn't rule mange out. Demodectic mange is often not itchy unless the skin becomes infected, and ringworm is often not very itchy either. Hormone problems such as hypothyroidism can also cause hair loss without itching, and less often an immune or skin-cell disease is involved, which is why a biopsy can help.
Since antibiotics didn't help, it's reasonable to ask your vet about a deep skin scraping for demodex, a fungal culture or PCR test for ringworm, and possibly blood tests or a skin biopsy. A referral to a veterinary dermatologist can also help when the cause isn't clear.
If it turns out to be ringworm, wash your hands after touching him and watch family members for itchy, ring-shaped rashes.
See ringworm in dogs and mange in dogs.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
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