Immune and auto-immune skin conditions in dogs

10 Jun 2007

10 Jun, 2007 Dog Cancer, Dog Skin and Coat, Dogs & Puppies

Dog skin problems manifest in different ways as compared to cat skin problems. A typical description of a dog with skin problems would read as under:

* Itchy skin and eruptions.
* Inflammation in the ears and toes.
* Excessive licking.
* Intense itching near the anus and genitals.

Though these symptoms can appear anywhere the commonly affected areas are the lower back, nose and mouth. Ulcerative skin diseases known as lupus are the most dangerous autoimmune skin diseases that affect dogs, other pets and even humans.

Autoimmune related skin diseases are mostly caused by allergies. These allergies occur as a reaction in a dog due to certain food items, pollutants, chemicals, dust, pollen and other substances that are normally harmless.

The affected organ responds to the allergen and the autoimmune reaction of the body causes certain symptoms. This reaction of the autoimmune system that is triggered to expel the foreign substance gives the condition the name - autoimmune disorders.

Another common cause of autoimmune skin disorders is unrestrained use of vaccinations, overdose of cortisone and commercial diets. Together these factors result in weakening the autoimmune system and increase vulnerability.

Autoimmune related skin disorders manifest themselves in various ways in dogs.

One set of conditions known as pemphigus is characterized by large thin-walled blisters (bullae). These blisters can arise from normal skin or mucous membranes. Later, they can ulcerate and form crusts. Another characteristic of pemphigus is red patches that change to pustules and later dry up to form yellow crusts.

Normally these are restricted to the nose, the mouth and areas around the eyes and ears. The crusts bind to the skin underneath and can spread through out the body leading to de-pigmentation of the skin.

Another set of conditions is erythema. Erythema is an abnormal redness of the skin resulting from dilation of the blood vessels. Erythema multiforme is red rash caused by hypersensitivity to a drug, disease or another allergen.

Systemic lupus erythematosus is an inflammatory disease of the connective tissue with multiple conditions. Typical symptoms include fever, weakness, abnormal fatigability and skin lesions on the face or neck or arms.

Toxic epidermal necrolysis is an autoimmune condition that leads to disintegration and shedding of dead tissue. This is a severe and painful condition in which blisters and ulcers form on the skin, mucous membranes and footpads.

Skin problems like canine and feline hair loss, feline acne and cat dandruff that appear to be minor can probably be harbingers of autoimmune skin conditions to come. An abnormality in any part of the skin noticed during routine pet care or grooming should be attended to and treated immediately.

High doses of conventional drugs can cause autoimmune skin disorders. Alternative treatments like homeopathy remedies and natural treatments can be highly beneficial to your pet and aid in strengthening the immune system.

References:

http://www.nzymes.com/Articles/dog_skin_hair_problems.htm

http://www.gopetsamerica.com/dog-health/skin-disorders.aspx

http://www.pets4life.com/index.php?p=research/articles/1

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