Autoimmune (immune-mediated) skin
diseases are a group of disorders where the immune system "attacks" the skin
causing various skin lesions including loss of pigment, crusts (scabs), erosions,
ulcers, hair loss, etc.
Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE)
DLE is the second most common immune-mediate skin disease in the dog. DLE
is considered to be a benign variant of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
DLE most commonly affects the nasal planum (nose) and results in loss of
pigmentation, redness, crusts, bleeding, erosions and ulcers (deep sores).
The lips, ears, eyelids, genitalia and feet may be affected. Tissue loss
and scaring can occur. Sunlight may exacerbate DLE. Definitive diagnosis
requires tissue biopsies of the affected area(s). Many different therapies
are available for patients with DLE and often depend on the severity of the
disease.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
(SLE)
SLE is a multi-system autoimmune disease characterized by the formation of
autoantibodies against various self-antigens and immune complexes. SLE can
affect many different body organs, including the skin. Some of the more common
clinical signs include fevers, joint pain, skin lesions, enlarged lymph nodes,
enlarged abdominal organs, kidney problems, anemia, low platelet counts,
lethargy, poor appetite. Affected patients may display only a few of these
signs or many of these signs. SLE can be tricky to diagnose and challenging
to treat.
Pemphigus Foliaceus (PF)
PF results from the immune system "attacking" the adhesions between the skin
cells. This results in several skin signs including pustules, scale, crusts,
red skin, erosions, erosions and hair loss. Any part of the pet's skin may
be affected. The footpads and mucous membranes are also sometimes affected.
The PF lesions may be uncomfortable, itchy and/or painful. Sometimes pets
with PF may be lethargic or depressed and/or have a fever and/or a poor appetite.
Bacterial skin infections may be present concurrently. Definitive diagnosis
requires tissue biopsies of the affected area(s). Therapies for patients
with PF often often involve suppressing or modulating the immune system.
The best therapies for your pet will be determined by our veterinary dermatologist.
