Vetnews January 2021: Canine Pododermatitis Part 2 Causes and Clinical Presentations

Introduction

Diagnostic approach:
Pododermatitis cases often look very similar and can be frustrating to diagnose. A thorough diagnostic approach is therefore required for each dog presenting with pododermatitis with the aim to identify the primary cause(s) are soon as possible in order to prevent the case from becoming a chronic, unresponsive case. It is also crucial to identify any secondary, predisposing and perpetuating factors and to treat or manage these where possible. The diagnostic approach should include a complete general and dermatological history, clinical examination, cytology, deep skin scrapings and hair plucks, bacterial and/or fungal culture and sensitivity where indicated and skin biopsies for histopathology and cultures in selected cases. Serum chemistries, endocrine evaluations, faecal flotations, allergy testing, diet trials, radiographs and ultrasound examinations are also indicated in some cases.