Histologic evaluation of infested tissue reveals numerous mites in the stratum corneum. Members of this genus can be identified by the presence of sarcoptiform pretarsi with a long unsegmented caruncle. These are parasites in the skin of mammals and individuals have an anus that is terminal on the ventral side. There are numerous varieties of this species that infest many animals including man. Extreme pruritus with secondary self- trauma is common.
Lesions are common on the ears, face, and neck.
The life cycle is similar to that of Sarcoptes. Lesions are also similar to Sarcoptes being moist in the early stages and as hair loss continues, they become dry and crusty. The first evidence of infestations starts around the tips of the ears and may spread over the head and around the neck, gradually moving more posteriorly. Members of this genus are similar in appearance to Sarcoptes except that the anus is located on the dorsal surface. The adults can live for weeks off of the host and as such, direct contact is not necessary for spread.