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Nasal Planum Dermatoses of the Dog
Nasal planum dermatoses in dogs can be infectious, immune-mediated, allergic, neoplastic, and metabolic in nature. Recognizing key lesions and features and knowing how and when to biopsy can help distinguish between similar diseases. The focus of this art... moreNasal planum dermatoses in dogs can be infectious, immune-mediated, allergic, neoplastic, and metabolic in nature. Recognizing key lesions and features and knowing how and when to biopsy can help distinguish between similar diseases. The focus of this article is to review the most commonly encountered nasal planum dermatoses in dogs and to enable the veterinary practitioner to recognize and differentiate between them to obtain a diagnosis.
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Cutaneous Mycobacterioses of Cats and Dogs
Worldwide, a variety of mycobacterial species have been associated with skin lesions in dogs and cats. Lesions may result from systemic dissemination or local cutaneous inoculation. Only infections with Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex organisms have th... moreWorldwide, a variety of mycobacterial species have been associated with skin lesions in dogs and cats. Lesions may result from systemic dissemination or local cutaneous inoculation. Only infections with Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex organisms have the potential to be transmitted from companion animals to humans, but even then, zoonotic risk is considered low. Diagnosis of mycobacterial infections is based on identification of intralesional acid-fast bacteria using cytology or histopathology, culture at experienced facilities, and use of PCR-sequencing. Treatment typically requires prolonged combination therapy with antimycobacterial drugs, and the prognosis varies depending on the mycobacterial species involved and presence of underlying immunosuppression. less
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Applications for Laser in Veterinary Dermatology
Laser usage in veterinary dermatology has increased in popularity over the last several decades. Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is the leading modality in surgical laser for veterinary dermatology because of its unmatched performance with soft tissue, particu... moreLaser usage in veterinary dermatology has increased in popularity over the last several decades. Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is the leading modality in surgical laser for veterinary dermatology because of its unmatched performance with soft tissue, particularly the skin. This laser cuts and coagulates tissue via the photothermal effect of laser energy when interacting with soft tissues with high water content, such as skin. CO2 laser modality has many indications for the diagnosis and treatment of dermatologic conditions in animals. This article will review the basics of CO2 laser and how to utilize it in veterinary dermatology. less
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Small Animal Dermatology: Updates on Canine Atopic Dermatitis, Cutaneous Infectious Disease, Autoimmune Disease, and Treatment Modalities
Dermatologic problems are among the most common reason pet owners seek care for dogs and cats, comprising a diverse set of conditions. Dermatology is ever evolving, with changes in our understanding of pathogenesis, and advances in diagnosis and treatment... moreDermatologic problems are among the most common reason pet owners seek care for dogs and cats, comprising a diverse set of conditions. Dermatology is ever evolving, with changes in our understanding of pathogenesis, and advances in diagnosis and treatment being made all the time. Our goals in developing the present issue were to provide updates on those diseases that are core to dermatologic practice, while also highlighting less-common diseases where recent developments in pathogenesis, diagnosis, or treatment have been described. less
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Papillomavirus
Papillomaviruses (PV) affect dogs and cats. Oral papillomas are common in young dogs and generally do not require treatment because they resolve spontaneously. The virus is spread via direct contact during play, or via indirect contact (from the environme... morePapillomaviruses (PV) affect dogs and cats. Oral papillomas are common in young dogs and generally do not require treatment because they resolve spontaneously. The virus is spread via direct contact during play, or via indirect contact (from the environment, through fomites). Cutaneous papillomas are less common and less likely to resolve spontaneously. Cryosurgery, CO2 laser ablation, surgical excision, or topical imiquimod are options for bothersome or nonregressing papillomas. Papillomas in older dogs occur due to systemic immunosuppression and diagnostic investigation is warranted. Cutaneous or oral papillomas in cats are uncommon and feline PV are associated with certain skin neoplasms. less
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Updates on the Pathogenesis of Canine Atopic Dermatitis and Feline Atopic Skin Syndrome: Part 2, the Skin Barrier, the Microbiome, and Immune System Dysfunction
Alterations in the lipid layer and intercellular corneocyte connections can lead to increased allergen penetration through the skin surface. A normal cutaneous microbiome keeps the opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus pseudintermedius levels low, but all... moreAlterations in the lipid layer and intercellular corneocyte connections can lead to increased allergen penetration through the skin surface. A normal cutaneous microbiome keeps the opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus pseudintermedius levels low, but allergic inflammation leads to decreased diversity and increase in S pseudintermedius. Keratinocytes sound the initial allergen alarm via cytokine signaling and promote T-helper 2 (Th-2) inflammation. Th-2 cytokine products IL-4, IL-13, and IL-31 are increased in the acute allergic inflammatory response. Altered response in T-helper 1, T-helper 17, and T-regulatory cells play a role in both acute and chronic allergic inflammation. less
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Updates on the Pathogenesis of Canine and Feline Atopic Dermatitis
Canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) and feline atopic skin syndrome are inflammatory and pruritic skin diseases with both environmental and genetic factors. Genetic factors may include barrier defects and a predisposition to mount T helper 2 lymphocyte immune ... moreCanine atopic dermatitis (cAD) and feline atopic skin syndrome are inflammatory and pruritic skin diseases with both environmental and genetic factors. Genetic factors may include barrier defects and a predisposition to mount T helper 2 lymphocyte immune response when allergens are encountered. These diseases have repeatable patterns of skin and ear inflammation and commonly lead to Staphylococcal and Malassezia skin and ear infections. Early life environmental factors and an indoor lifestyle may increase the risk of cAD. The most ubiquitous environmental allergen is house dust mite with pollens, molds, foods, and Malassezia yeast potentially playing a role in affected individuals. less
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Canine and Feline Pemphigus Foliaceus—an Update on Pathogenesis and Treatment
Pemphigus foliaceus (PF) is one of the most common autoimmune skin diseases of dogs and cats and is characterized by the development of pustules, crusts, erosions, scales, and alopecia. Albeit poorly understood, the pathophysiology of canine and feline PF... morePemphigus foliaceus (PF) is one of the most common autoimmune skin diseases of dogs and cats and is characterized by the development of pustules, crusts, erosions, scales, and alopecia. Albeit poorly understood, the pathophysiology of canine and feline PF appears to involve immune dysregulation and immunoglobulin G autoantibodies that are directed against the keratinocyte cell surface. At present, the management of canine and feline PF relies on the long-term to lifelong prescription of immunosuppressive medications. Current knowledge on the pathogenesis of canine and feline PF, as well as traditional and emerging therapies used to treat both diseases, will be reviewed herein. less
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Pythiosis in Dogs
Pythiosis is caused by the oomycete Pythium insidiosum. Within the United States, Pythiosis is most seen in the Southeast and Gulf Coast states, but it has an expanding distribution. Pythiosis is characterized by gastrointestinal or cutaneous lesions, and... morePythiosis is caused by the oomycete Pythium insidiosum. Within the United States, Pythiosis is most seen in the Southeast and Gulf Coast states, but it has an expanding distribution. Pythiosis is characterized by gastrointestinal or cutaneous lesions, and rarely these lesions are seen together. Special stains (eg, Gomori methamine silver) help to improve detection of fungal hyphae and should be used in conjunction with molecular techniques to obtain a definitive diagnosis. Surgery with wide margins is traditionally recommended but there is growing utilization of medical therapy. Prognosis is variable and the disease should no longer be considered uniformly fatal. less
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The Friend Who Helps You Move, but Is Really Only There for the Free Beer and Pizza
Antimicrobial resistance is a significant public health threat and a major challenge for treatment of companion animal skin infections. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) is a critical tool which clinicians should employ when a patient may need an... moreAntimicrobial resistance is a significant public health threat and a major challenge for treatment of companion animal skin infections. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) is a critical tool which clinicians should employ when a patient may need antimicrobials beyond those deemed “first-tier.” Clinicians may have noted that many more isolates of Staphylococcus sp. and Pseudomonas aeruginosa appear more resistant which likely reflects both the emergence of acquired antimicrobial resistance, but also changes to clinical definitions which are outlined in this article. less
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Chronic Cough and Hyperpnea
Exercise intolerance, chronic cough, and hyperpnea are the clinical hallmarks of equine asthma. Diagnosis of severe equine asthma in horses is multistep; determination of the phenotype will help guide future recommendations. Management of equine asthma is... moreExercise intolerance, chronic cough, and hyperpnea are the clinical hallmarks of equine asthma. Diagnosis of severe equine asthma in horses is multistep; determination of the phenotype will help guide future recommendations. Management of equine asthma is largely reduction/elimination of triggering agents/conditions. Immunosuppressive therapies and bronchodilators are the mainstay of treatment of equine asthma. Rescue therapy with short-acting bronchodilators is the first goal when managing a horse with hyperpnea. The second goal is to control/reduce inflammation and airway remodeling. Immunosuppressive therapies alone will not be effective. Environmental and management changes must be established to minimize or eliminate exposure to triggering agents/factors. less
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Muscle Rehabilitation Techniques and Prevention of Injury
Rehabilitation following muscle injury is critical in restoring the equine athlete to full function. Rehabilitation protocols should be tailored to each patient’s global functional assessment, taking into account sports-specific demands, goals for return-... moreRehabilitation following muscle injury is critical in restoring the equine athlete to full function. Rehabilitation protocols should be tailored to each patient’s global functional assessment, taking into account sports-specific demands, goals for return-to-performance, and overall prognosis. Rehabilitation protocols are often designed to modulate pain, enhance repair, improve proprioception, increase flexibility, restore muscle strength, joint range-of-motion, and neuromotor control. This article will review mechanisms of muscle injury, various physical modalities commonly employed in the rehabilitation period following muscle injury, and injury prevention. less
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Anesthesia and Myopathies of Horses
Pre-existing muscle disorders in horses can often be subtle and may only become evident during or after anesthesia. Advancements in veterinary medicine, along with increased knowledge and research in this field, help minimize anesthesia-related problems. ... morePre-existing muscle disorders in horses can often be subtle and may only become evident during or after anesthesia. Advancements in veterinary medicine, along with increased knowledge and research in this field, help minimize anesthesia-related problems. Adequate preanesthesia assessment, early disease diagnosis, and proper management are crucial in minimizing risks to the neuromuscular system during general anesthesia.
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Immunodeficiencies in Foals
Knowledge of immunodeficiencies is crucial to neonatal medicine, in that they predispose to sepsis in the newborn and neonatal foal, as well as recurrent infections in older foals. The most common immunodeficiency in newborn and neonatal foals is failure ... moreKnowledge of immunodeficiencies is crucial to neonatal medicine, in that they predispose to sepsis in the newborn and neonatal foal, as well as recurrent infections in older foals. The most common immunodeficiency in newborn and neonatal foals is failure of passive transfer, which is an example of an acquired immunodeficiency. Congenital or developmental immunodeficiencies may be transient or permanent, and can either affect the cell-mediated or humoral arms of immunity, and in some cases both. Affected foals often have chronic or recurrent respiratory or gastrointestinal infections, often with opportunistic pathogens. less
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Skeletal Muscle Biopsy
Muscle biopsy is often required to provide a definitive diagnosis for neuromuscular disorders and can be performed using open surgical or percutaneous needle biopsy techniques. Fresh samples that are subsequently frozen in the laboratory are preferred by ... moreMuscle biopsy is often required to provide a definitive diagnosis for neuromuscular disorders and can be performed using open surgical or percutaneous needle biopsy techniques. Fresh samples that are subsequently frozen in the laboratory are preferred by laboratories engaged in research, whereas formalin-fixed muscle is processed by diagnostic laboratories with specialized tinctorial and immunohistochemical techniques. Interpretation by an experienced histopathologist, combined with the signalment, history, and clinical input, is essential for establishing a diagnosis. This article outlines best practices to select, obtain, and ship a muscle sample to a laboratory and a summary of laboratory techniques. less
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Equine Oncology: Why Does It Matter Anyway?
Whilst I would be the first to admit that oncology is not generally considered to be the most important field within equine medicine, this underserved area is growing in understanding, and the treatment options are often varied and complex with very littl... moreWhilst I would be the first to admit that oncology is not generally considered to be the most important field within equine medicine, this underserved area is growing in understanding, and the treatment options are often varied and complex with very little evidence behind many of the traditional approaches. New treatments are being investigated all the time, and as owners demand better treatment options for their horses, practitioners need to be at the forefront of these developments to best advise the management of these sometimes-complicated cases. less
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Unusual Equine Tumors
There are a number of unusual tumors in the horse. Gross tumor characteristics, anatomical location, and signalment may assist with identification. Clinical pathology is often unrewarding with non-specific findings, while fine needle aspirates may not obt... moreThere are a number of unusual tumors in the horse. Gross tumor characteristics, anatomical location, and signalment may assist with identification. Clinical pathology is often unrewarding with non-specific findings, while fine needle aspirates may not obtain sufficient tissue material to confirm a diagnosis. Although regular staining of biopsy material may be sufficient, immunohistochemistry markers may be required, especially in less differentiated tumors. The prognosis is dependent on the type, location, tumor size as well as on metastatic spread. A selection of unusual and rare tumors that the clinician is more likely to encounter is discussed. less
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Lymphoma & Myeloproliferative Disease
Lymphoma and myeloproliferative diseases in horses are relatively uncommon. The clinical signs, prognosis, and treatment options depend upon the anatomic location and subtype. Significant gaps in knowledge remain regarding prevalence, pathogenesis of diff... moreLymphoma and myeloproliferative diseases in horses are relatively uncommon. The clinical signs, prognosis, and treatment options depend upon the anatomic location and subtype. Significant gaps in knowledge remain regarding prevalence, pathogenesis of different subtypes, antemortem diagnostic tests, response to treatment, and standardized treatment protocols. However, treatment options are available, accessible on the farm, and could improve quality of life and prolong survival.
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Equine Melanoma Updates
Melanomas are very common in older gray horses, with 80% of gray horses having at least 1 melanoma by 15 years of age. Historically considered a benign disease, it is now known that up to 66% of lesions will eventually metastasize. Melanomas may also caus... moreMelanomas are very common in older gray horses, with 80% of gray horses having at least 1 melanoma by 15 years of age. Historically considered a benign disease, it is now known that up to 66% of lesions will eventually metastasize. Melanomas may also cause local problems due to abscessation, ulceration, and interference with function of the affected areas. Treatment can be limited by size and location, but surgical resection, where possible, is likely to be the treatment of choice.
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Surgical Management of Equine Neoplasia
Equine neoplasia poses challenges in surgical management owing to their diverse locations and potential for aggressive behavior. Surgical interventions aim for complete excision while minimizing cosmetic and functional impairments. Techniques such as lase... moreEquine neoplasia poses challenges in surgical management owing to their diverse locations and potential for aggressive behavior. Surgical interventions aim for complete excision while minimizing cosmetic and functional impairments. Techniques such as laser ablation and electrochemotherapy offer minimally invasive options for accessible tumors. For deeper or larger masses, surgical excision with adequate margins remains the gold standard. Preoperative biopsy and imaging guides surgical planning, ensuring complete tumor removal while preserving vital structures. Close adherence to a strict surgical protocol to prevent seeding of tumor cells, and, where possible, appropriate skin reconstruction techniques will improve cosmesis and outcome. less
