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Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the clinical and aetiological aspects of contact dermatitis of the scrotum in dogs., Methods: The medical records of 13 dogs with suspected scrotal contact dermatitis were retrospectively included in the study. For each case, historical findings, results of physical and dermatological examination and of avoidance tests as well as follow-up were included. Results of re-exposure tests and patch tests were also included when available., Results: Avoidance tests to various suspected substances such as floor detergents, bleach, cement, laundry detergent and plastic fabric were performed and led to clinical improvement in all patients. Provocative re-exposure was performed in six cases, with five positive responses. Patch tests were undertaken in three of the five re-exposed cases, with two responding positively., Clinical Significance: Scrotal skin is thin and with few hair follicles, and is therefore very susceptible to contact dermatitis. A range of substances can induce contact dermatitis. The diagnosis of contact dermatitis is made by results of avoidance and/or provocation tests and/or patch tests. Once an aetiological agent has been identified, treatment is straightforward consisting of avoidance of this agent., (© 2011 British Small Animal Veterinary Association.)

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a multifaceted disease resulting from a complex interaction between environmental and genetic factors. Both of these factors can shape skin barrier function and the immunological response of predisposed patients. There is increasing evidence that an impaired skin barrier plays a role in both human and canine AD. Although many primary skin barrier defects had already been documented in the past in humans, the recent identification of the filaggrin mutations and the fact that such mutations are now considered the most important risk factor for development of AD have further emphasized the relevance of epidermal dysfunction in human AD. Much less is known in veterinary medicine, but evidence is rapidly building to support a role for skin barrier dysfunction in canine AD. Canine AD shares many clinical and immunological similarities with its human counterpart. The similar distribution of clinical lesions and the importance of the epicutaneous route of allergen exposure provided the incentive to investigate the role of skin barrier impairments in canine AD. The purpose of this comparative review is to present the current evidence of barrier dysfunction in both human and canine AD., (© 2011 The Authors. Veterinary Dermatology. © 2011 ESVD and ACVD.)

Histological lesions and the presence of Leishmania spp. amastigotes in claw tissues were investigated in 40 dogs with leishmaniosis, with (16/40--group A) or without (24/40--group B) generalized onychogryphosis. Following euthanasia, the entire third phalanx with intact claw was amputated, formalin fixed, decalcified in a formic acid solution, embedded in paraffin, sectioned longitudinally and stained with haematoxylin and eosin, and acid orcein-Giemsa. Nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for the detection of Leishmania amastigotes. Lichenoid mononuclear infiltration (all dogs in group A, 21 of 24 dogs in group B), basal keratinocyte vacuolation (nine of 16 dogs in group A, 15 of 24 dogs in group B) and dermoepidermal clefting (13 of 16 dogs in group A, 18 of 24 dogs in group B) were the most prominent histopathological findings. There was no difference in the frequency and severity of these lesions between the two groups. Leishmania amastigotes could not be visualized in the dermis of any of the H&E sections, but their presence was demonstrated by nested PCR in three of 16 dogs in group A and two of 24 dogs in group B. However, the frequency of positive nested PCRs was not significantly different between the two groups. In conclusion, claw histopathology in symptomatic dogs with leishmaniosis, either with or without onychogryphosis is mainly characterized by mononuclear lichenoid dermatitis with or without interface dermatitis and dermoepidermal clefting, and is not accompanied by substantial local parasitism., (© 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 ESVD and ACVD.)

Enzootic dermatophytosis in a shelter with approximately 140 cats was treated according to a protocol combining identification, isolation and treatment of subclinical carrier and affected animals in accordance with a three-area system: healthy animals (no lesions and negative cultures), subclinical carrier animals (no lesions but with positive cultures) and clinically affected animals (lesions and positive cultures). The cats were examined and inspected under a Wood's lamp and had samples taken for fungal culture every 2 weeks. Thirty-three per cent of the cats had a positive fungal culture at the start of the study. Clinically affected animals and carriers were treated with a 0.2% enilconazole lotion (Imaverol) twice a week and given itraconazole (Itrafungol) 5 mg/kg SID orally every other week. The environment was treated once a day with a 1% bleach solution and once a week with a 0.6% enilconazole (Clinafarm) solution. Treated animals were considered cured after two consecutive negative fungal cultures. All cats were cured within 56 days. Prophylactic measures against dermatophytosis were implemented for new arrivals consisting of individual quarantine and the systematic taking of fungal cultures. No relapses were observed based on the fungal cultures taken from the animals and the environment over the first 10 months.

This double-blind controlled study assessed whether reduced doses of omega interferon (rFeIFN-omega) (Virbagen Omega) could improve the clinical signs of canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) over a 6-month period, in comparison with cyclosporin. Thirty-one dogs diagnosed with CAD were entered in the study. Complicating infections were treated prior to entry. Dogs received 10 injections of rFeIFN-omega (1-5 million units according to bodyweight) or placebo over 6 months, and placebo capsules or cyclosporin (5 mg/kg) once daily for 2 months and then twice weekly for 4 months in groups 1 and 2 respectively. Flea control, non-medicated shampooing and ear cleansing were performed regularly. If a bacterial infection or Malassezia overgrowth developed, it was treated with oral cephalexin or with 3% chlorhexidine shampoo respectively. Oral prednisolone was used before day 90 to relieve pruritus when required for humane reasons (1 mg/kg once daily for 7 days). The CADESI-03 and a pruritus index were evaluated on day (D) 0, D14, D35, D56, D90, D120 and D180. No significant difference was detected between the groups for the time courses of lesions or pruritus over 6 months. On D90, the proportions of dogs with > or =50% improvement of pruritus and lesion scores were 56% and 72% respectively with interferon, 75% and 75% respectively with cyclosporin. Five dogs from group 1 and two dogs from group 2 were withdrawn from the study for treatment failure. Both products were well tolerated. Treatment with rfeIFN-omega at low doses may help for the long-term management of CAD.

A randomised, placebo-controlled, double blind study was conducted on 25 dogs that had atopic dermatitis, together with skin test reactivity and elevated serum IgE to Dermatophagoides farinae (Df) and at least one additional allergen. Dogs were treated with either a Df-restricted immunotherapy solution (n=14) or a placebo (n=11) and evaluated 6 weeks and 3, 5, 7 and 9 months after the initiation of treatment using a clinical scoring system (SASSAD) and pruritus analogue scale scores. The Df-restricted solution and the placebo had an equal effect on both pruritus and the skin manifestations (P>0.05). The results of this study indicate that in dogs with atopic dermatitis based on hypersensitivity to environmental allergens in addition to D. farinae, Df-restricted immunotherapy is insufficient to control the disease. Consequently, a solution for allergen-specific immunotherapy should remain customised.

Pugs are predisposed to the development of deeply pigmented, slightly elevated hyperkeratotic noncancerous plaques. Polymerase chain reaction amplification of a papillomavirus (PV)-like DNA fragment from such lesions suggested that PV may be responsible for them, although the predicted virus has not yet been identified. The goal of the present study was to make use of pigmented plaques from four pugs to identify and sequence the predicted virus. Taking advantage of the circular nature of PV DNA, the entire viral genome was amplified by rolling circle amplification and restriction enzyme analysis disclosed the same pattern in all four cases. Sequencing of one of the amplificates revealed a novel canine PV, termed CPV4, related to the recently described CPV3 but clearly distinct from canine oral PV and CPV2. Thus, a novel canine PV and a method for its future diagnosis are described.

The authors report 10 cases of localised sarcoptic mange in dogs. In each case, lesions were localised to one precise area of the skin. Pruritus was present in nine cases and absent in one. Affected areas were the feet (one case), the face and/or the pinnae (six cases), the abdominal skin (one case), the flank (one case) and the lumbar area (one case). The types of lesions were erythema, papules, lichenification, scales, crusts and alopecia. Parasites were found in all cases except one, in which anti-immunoglobulin G Sarcoptes serology was positive. The acaricidal treatments given were lindane, ivermectin or selamectin and were all successful.

This study evaluated PYM00217, a proprietary blend of plant extracts, in the management of canine atopic dermatitis (AD). One hundred and twenty dogs were diagnosed with perennial AD on the basis of history, clinical signs, a positive test for perennial allergens and elimination of other dermatoses. Exclusion criteria included antimicrobials within 7 days, antihistamines within 14 days, oral/topical glucocorticoids or ciclosporin within 28 days, and parenteral glucocorticoids, essential fatty acids or immunotherapy within 56 days. Flea control, shampoos and ear cleaners were permitted. Dogs with a minimum canine atopic dermatitis extent and severity index (CADESI) of 25 were randomly allocated to receive PYM00217 (100, 200 or 400 mg kg-1 day-1) or placebo for 12 weeks. The mean reductions in CADESI (intention-to-treat population) were 3.9% (placebo; n=29), 4.4% (100 mg kg-1 day-1; n=30), 23.4% (200 mg kg-1 day-1; n=29) and 8.5% (400 mg kg-1 day-1; n=29). The reduction in the 200 mg kg-1 day-1 group was significant (P<0.01). For dogs with a baseline CADESI>or=50, the mean changes were +10.6% (placebo; n=12), +0.6% (100 mg kg-1 day-1; n=14), -29.3% (200 mg kg-1 day-1; n=14) and -3.4% (400 mg kg-1 day-1; n=15). The 200 mg kg-1 day-1 dose was significantly more effective than placebo (P=0.038). No serious adverse effects were reported. Minor adverse effects seen in 10% (placebo and 100 mg kg-1 day-1), 24% (200 mg kg-1 day-1) and 42% (400 mg kg-1 day-1) of cases were mainly minor gastrointestinal disorders and only five cases required cessation of dosing. Two dogs (one in each of the 100 mg kg-1 day-1 and 200 mg kg-1 day-1 groups) refused to eat the medicated food. In conclusion, PYM00217 at 200 mg kg-1 appears to be an effective, palatable and well-tolerated treatment for canine AD.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of in vivo and in vitro tests in the diagnosis of flea allergy dermatitis in comparison with history, clinical signs and response to flea control. Intradermal testing using four different sources of flea allergens and FcepsilonRIalpha-based immunoglobulin (Ig)E assays were performed in 15 flea-allergic dogs, 15 atopic dogs and 15 dogs infested with fleas but showing no clinical signs of skin disease. Sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, positive predictive value and accuracy were calculated for all five tests and results varied greatly. Sensitivity, specificity and overall accuracy were 27, 83 and 64%, respectively, for one extract (Isotec), 67, 90 and 82% for another extract (Greer), 93, 90 and 91% for flea saliva, 40, 90 and 73% for the recombinant Cte f 1 both produced by Heska Corp. and 87, 53 and 64% for a FcepsilonRIalpha-based IgE assay. These results indicate that intradermal testing with flea extracts is more accurate in the diagnosis of flea allergy dermatitis than in vitro tests. Moreover, pure flea saliva used as a reagent for intradermal testing provided the best results in terms of sensitivity, specificity and overall accuracy although the Greer extract, a whole body flea extract, also allowed a good correlation between intradermal testing results and clinical approach to flea allergy dermatitis diagnosis.

This study evaluated the clinical and histopathological features and results of light and electron scanning microscopy assessments of follicular dysplasia in five Weimar Pointers. The data were compared with those obtained in three normal Weimaraners. In our study, this dermatosis affected young adults that showed progressive alopecia of the trunk (head and limbs were spared) associated with recurrent folliculitis/furunculosis. Exclusion of other dermatoses and the presence of histopathological lesions and hair shafts abnormalities seen in light and/or scanning electron microscopy similar to colour dilution alopecia led to the diagnosis of follicular dysplasia. The lesions we observed are the same as those described previously in colour dilution alopecia, but they were less pronounced in all our samples.

Objective: To evaluate efficacy of cyclosporine A, administered at either of 2 dosages, in dogs with atopic dermatitis (AD)., Design: Multicenter randomized controlled trial., Animals: 91 dogs with AD., Procedure: Dogs were assigned to receive placebo (30 dogs), cyclosporine at a low dosage (2.5 mg/kg [1.1 mg/lb], PO, q 24 h for 6 weeks; 30 dogs), or cyclosporine at a high dosage (5.0 mg/kg [2.3 mg/lb], PO, q 24 h for 6 weeks; 31 dogs)., Results: After 6 weeks, mean percentage reductions, compared with baseline scores, in scores of lesion severity were 34, 41, and 67% for dogs treated with the placebo, cyclosporine at the low dosage, and cyclosporine at the high dosage, respectively. Similarly, mean percentage reductions in pruritus scores were 15, 31, and 45%, respectively. Percentage reductions in skin lesion and pruritus scores were significantly higher for dogs given cyclosporine at the high dosage than for dogs given the placebo. Treatment efficacy was significantly associated with whether dogs had a history of seasonal AD. Percentage reductions in skin lesion and pruritus scores were high for dogs treated with cyclosporine at the highest dosage that had a history of nonseasonal AD. Dogs in all groups with seasonal AD improved during the study period., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Results suggest that oral administration of cyclosporine at a dosage of 5.0 mg/kg once daily is effective in reducing severity of pruritus and skin lesions in dogs with AD, especially those with nonseasonal disease.

Four dogs developed cutaneous lesions following the administration of various antibiotics. Histopathology of the lesions was compatible with pemphigus foliaceus, although apoptotic cells suggestive of erythema multiforme were seen in two cases. In two dogs the lesions resolved after 7.5-8.5 months of immune-suppressive treatment. No recurrence was seen during the follow-up period (3 and 4.5 years). The lesions in the other two dogs resolved within 3 weeks to 3 months following discontinuation of the antibiotic. No recurrence of clinical signs occurred during the follow-up period (1 and 4 years, respectively).

This study investigated intradermal test reactions to extracts of six species of mites in 150 dogs with atopic dermatitis. At least one positive reaction was seen in 120 animals (80%). Dermatophagoides farinae attracted the highest number of positive reactions (108 dogs, 90% of dogs and 72% of atopic dogs showing positive reactions). Positive reactions to other mites were not uncommon, with many dogs testing positive for Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (32% of dogs tested), Acarus siro (35%), Tyrophagus putrescentiae (30%), Glycyphagus domesticus (27%) and Lepidoglyphus destructor (23%). Sensitivity to D. farinae alone occurred commonly (57% of cases), but multiple sensitivities were seen frequently with the other mites. Cases of sensitivity to only one mite were also seen: D. pteronyssinus (five cases), T. putrescentiae (one case) and G. domesticus (one case). Further studies are needed to appreciate more clearly the precise role played by the different species of mite in canine atopic dermatitis.

This article reviews contemporary concepts underlying the design of control strategies for the management of flea allergy dermatitis in dogs and cats. The limitations of palliative symptomatic approaches are noted, as is the fundamental requirement to differentiate simple pulicosis from true hypersensitivity. In the latter case, eradication of fleas from the affected animal and its surroundings has to be an essential aim. The different biological properties offered by modern chemotherapy are defined and the range of techniques for applying active compounds to the animal and its environment described. Factors for consideration when formulating control strategies and selecting chemotherapeutic agents are discussed in the context of the complexities of the flea life-cycle, the host-parasite relationship and client concerns., (Blackwell Science Ltd.)

Thirty-nine dogs with severe and/or recurrent lesions of pyoderma were treated with marbofloxacin at an average dosage of 2.12 mg/kg bodyweight, once daily, for time periods varing from 10 to 213 days. Forty-seven strains of bacteria, isolated from 34 cultures, were tested for sensitivity to various antibiotics. At day 0, no resistance to marbofloxacin was found, but one refractory case, a strain of Staphylococcus intermedius resistant to marbofloxacin, was cultured at day 28. Thirty-three dogs (84.6 per cent) showed an excellent response (cure), one (2.6 per cent) a clear improvement and one (2.6 per cent) a smaller improvement, while the remaining four dogs showed no response after 11 to 60 days. Fifteen dogs (45.5 per cent) relapsed over the follow-up period of three to 191 days, but none of the dogs in the study exhibited any adverse effects.

Scleroderma is a rare chronic disease of connective tissues, involving the skin and/or internal organs in humans, and rarely described in the dog. A case is reported of localised scleroderma in a cat which presented with two well delineated alopecic, sclerotic, raised and shiny lesions localised on the trunk. Diagnosis was made by histopathological examination of skin biopsies which showed the replacement of all dermal components by dense thick collagen bundles. No therapy was instituted and a spontaneous recovery occurred three months later. Clinical and histopathological aspects of this feline dermatosis are compared with human and canine morphea.

The efficacy of oral co-amoxyclav, administered twice daily for up to 12 weeks either at the manufacturer's dose rate of 12.5 mg/kg or at 25.0 mg/kg, in curing the lesions of canine folliculitis, furunculosis and cellulitis was compared in a blind study. A total of 97 dogs entered the trial and 67 completed it. There was no significant difference in the rate of cure or the duration of therapy. The lesions of folliculitis were cured in 91.5 per cent of cases, in a mean period of 25.3 days. Furunculosis and cellulitis were cured respectively in 87.5 per cent and 60.0 per cent of the dogs, in mean periods of 37.6 and 44.7 days. The standard dose rate was very effective in folliculitis and furunculosis and there was no benefit in doubling the dose. Too few cases of cellulitis were treated to provide a reliable dose comparison.

Clinical and diagnostic parameters, and response to topical mupirocin in 25 cats with feline acne are described. The chin was the most common area affected, but the lower lip, upper lip and the commissure of the lips also frequently had lesions. The most common clinical sign was the presence of crusts, followed by comedones, erythema, alopecia, pruritus and nodules/fistulas. Deep skin scrapings for ectoparasites, cytological examination of superficial skin scrapings, and fungal cultures from the chin were performed on all cats. Dermatophytes were cultured from two cats and Malassezia pachydermatis was cultured (n = 2), seen on cytology smears (n = 1), or noted on histopathology (n = 1). Skin biopsies were obtained from three of the cats and most commonly showed dilatation of sebaceous gland ducts, neutrophilic or pyogranulomatous infiltration of the sebaceous glands, and pyogranulomatous inflammation of the dermis. All cats were treated with topical 2% mupirocin ointment twice daily for 3 weeks as the sole treatment. Treatment response was excellent in 15 cats and good in nine cats. One cat had a contact reaction to the mupirocin, necessitating stopping treatment. The response to treatment of the six cats with dermatophyte or years involvement was good (n = 3) or excellent (n = 3)., (Blackwell Science Ltd.)

Abstract- The literature on food allergy in dogs and cats is reviewed and 33 cases in dogs and 10 cases in cats, seen in Aquitaine, France, are described. Clinical aspects, diagnosis and aetiology are emphasised and compared with published data. Résumé- Cet article fait la synthèse des données bibliographiques concernant l'allergie alimentaire chez le chien et le chat. Puis les auteurs présentent 33 cas de la maladie chez le chien et 10 cas chez le chat, observés en Aquitaine (France). Les aspects cliniques, diagnostiques et étiologiques sont soulignés et comparés aux données de la littérature. Zusammenfassung- In diesem Artikel wird ein Rückblick über die Futtermittel-allergie bie Hund und Katze in der Literatur gegeben. 33 Fälle dieser Erkrankung bei Hunden und 10 bei Katzen in Aquitanien, Frankreich, werden beschrieben. Klinische Aspekte, Diagnostik und Ätiologie werden herausgestellt und mit den Literaturangaben verglichen. Resumen  Este artículo presenta una revisión bibliográfica de la alergia alimentaria en el perro y en el gato. A continuación se presentan los datos clinicos de 33 casos de alergia alimentaria en perros y de 10 casos de alergia alimentaria en gatos, diagnosticados en Aquitania, Francia. Se describen los signos clinicos, el diagnóstico y la etiologia y se comparan éstos con los descritos en la bibliografia.