Skin lesions observed during shearing in 338 alpacas (Vicugna pacos) in South Australia

Objective: To identify the prevalence of skin lesions in a population of alpacas in South Australia, and to determine their distribution on the skin surface. Methods: A survey was conducted by professional alpaca shearers over a 16 day period during spring 2013 in three different geographical regions within South Australia. Skin lesions were observed and recorded using a Skin scoring chart, allowing for 11 different lesion types and 15 body areas. Results: Data were available from 338 alpacas, of which 60.4 ± 5.2% had one or more skin lesion. The most commonly observed lesions were scale and lichenification, crust, alopecia and erythema, each observed over 300 times. The most commonly affected areas were the fore and hind legs, axillae and hind feet. There was a significant association between lesion types and their anatomical location (Chi square test, p<0.0001). Conclusion: This survey of a subpopulation of South Australian alpacas has identified skin lesions in approximately 60% of subjects. Based on their location, the majority of lesions observed would not greatly influence the value of the fleece.