Zinc-responsive dermatosis in an Iranian cross-breed ram

An adult (two years old) Iranian cross-breed ram with alopecia, rough hair coats, thick and wrinkled skin, especially on the face, brisket, scrotum, tail and legs, presented with severe pruritus, poor condition and generalized unthriftiness. The animal was referred to the Veterinary Clinic of Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman. The vital signs and haematologic indices of the animal were normal. According to the history and clinical signs, mineral deficiencies, infestations with external parasites or endocrinopathy were suspected. Laboratory examinations of skin scrapings ruled out external parasites. Skin biopsy confirmed parakeratosis, which could be attributed to zinc deficiency. Zinc sulphate (250 mg, daily) was administered orally for 4 weeks. The clinical signs subsided after 4 weeks of treatment.