Evaluation of Bovine Dermatophilosis and Its Surgical Complications in Cattle Herds in Sokoto State

Dermatophilosis, caused by the bacterium Dermatophilus congolensis, is an economically important skin disease of cattle in tropical sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria's North West region. This study evaluates the prevalence of bovine dermatophilosis, the nature of secondary surgical complications arising from the condition, and the management outcomes in cattle herds in Sokoto State from January to December 2023. A herd-level survey was conducted across 28 cattle herds involving 1,240 animals. Affected animals were identified by dermatological examination, and confirmatory diagnosis was made via direct microscopy and bacterial culture. Surgical complications including deep skin ulcers, myiasis, and secondary bacterial cellulitis were documented and managed in a subset of 73 cattle. The overall prevalence of dermatophilosis was 19.8%, with the highest rates observed during the wet season. Animals in poor nutritional condition had a 2.8-fold higher risk of infection. Myiasis was identified as the most frequent complication, occurring in 44% of surgically managed cases, and required wound debridement combined with myicide application. Medical treatment with procaine penicillin combined with surgical wound management yielded satisfactory resolution in 84% of treated cattle. Herd immunity, improved nutrition, and ectoparasite control were significant protective factors. The findings call for integrated livestock health management programs targeting skin diseases and their surgical sequelae in Sahelian cattle populations in North Western Nigeria. Keywords: dermatophilosis, bovine skin disease, myiasis, Sokoto State, wound management.