A case series of canine cutaneous inverted papilloma with one case showing evidence of recurrence.

BACKGROUND: This article describes a case of multiple, recurrent, cutaneous inverted papillomas (CIPs) in a German shepherd dog, combined with a retrospective follow-up assessment of eight cases. METHODS: A 3-year-old, black, female German shepherd dog presented with four rapidly growing, alopecic, domed, hyperpigmented, shiny nodules, compatible with CIP. The dog was managed for pruritus, associated with atopic dermatitis, with long-term prednisolone therapy and this therapy was continued after the surgical excision. Twelve months after the initial presentation the dog was represented for two new CIP lesions, coinciding with an increased dosage of prednisolone during an allergic flare-up period. RESULTS: Histopathological evaluation was conducted on both the original and subsequent lesions from the case with recurrence. Eight cases of CIP, based on histopathological findings, were identified retrospectively from the authors' diagnostic pathology service over the previous two years. All nine cases had lesions that exhibited varying degrees of inverted epithelial hyperplasia, multiple, endophytic, papillary epidermal projections, a cup-shaped base with central hyperkeratosis and active viral pathological findings (koilocytes). The submitting veterinarians were contacted and follow-up regarding recurrence and concurrent medications was obtained. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: CIP is uncommonly reported, typically as a single lesion with no previous reports of recurrence, although one group of dogs with severe combined immunodeficiency developed invasive malignancies. In seven of eight retrospective cases no recurrence of CIP was recorded. The authors speculate that the recurrence in the German shepherd dog may have been associated with chronic (although low-dose) glucocorticoid administration.

Reproducibility of serum testing for environmental allergen-specific IgE in dogs in Europe.

BACKGROUND: Serum testing for allergen-specific immunoglobulin (Ig)E is commonly employed to identify allergens used for allergen-specific immunotherapy in dogs, yet the reliability of results has been a matter of debate. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the reproducibility of serum tests for environmental allergen-specific IgE in three European laboratories. ANIMALS/METHODS: Serum was obtained from 33 client-owned dogs diagnosed with atopic dermatitis, divided into three aliquots and sent to the laboratories under different names. Two aliquots were sent simultaneously to one of the laboratories on the first day; the third sample was then sent to the same laboratory on the subsequent day. The laboratory for each patient was chosen according to a predetermined randomization list. The agreement between different samples from the same dog for each of the laboratories was calculated with a Cohen's Kappa test. Spearman's rank coefficients (rsp ) as well as the coefficients of variation (CV) additionally were calculated. RESULTS: The intra- and interassay agreements for laboratories A, B and C were 0.79 and 0.75, 0.92 and 0.90, and 0.90 and 0.85, respectively. The CVs were 18.92% and 22.95%, 14.43% and 18.79%, and 15.38% and 18.75% (respectively) and the rsp 0.73 and 0.68, 0.95 and 0.92, and 0.82 and 0.74 (respectively). CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The differences in reproducibility between laboratories complicate test interpretation and underline the importance of interpreting results of serum testing for allergen-specific IgE in the context of the patient's clinical history.

Serum concentrations of IL-31 in dogs with nonpruritic mast cell tumours or lymphoma.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to compare serum interleukin (IL)-31 concentrations in dogs with lymphoma and mast cell tumours (MCT) without pruritus to those of healthy dogs. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: To determine if IL-31 plays a role in tumour pathogenesis and if IL-31 could be a biological marker for disease progression. ANIMALS: Forty-eight healthy dogs and 36 dogs with neoplasia [multicentric lymphoma (14), MCT (15) and cutaneous lymphoma (7)] were included in the study. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Dogs with neoplasia were assigned to three different groups. Group 1 consisted of patients with multicentric lymphoma, which were diagnosed by cytological, histopathological and clonality investigations. Thoracic radiographs, ultrasound examination of the abdominal cavity, and fine-needle aspirates from liver and spleen were used to determine the lymphoma stage Patients with cutaneous lymphoma, diagnosed by cytological and histopathological findings, were included in Group 2. Patients with MCT, diagnosed by cytological and histopathological findings, were included in Group 3. Serum was frozen at -80ºC before measuring the concentration of IL-31 via a Simoa ultra-sensitive, fully automated two-step immunoassay. RESULTS: Serum concentrations of IL-31, regardless of the disease and its staging, were within the normal range in all patients; there was no difference between any of the different tumour groups and healthy dogs. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: IL-31 is not likely to be involved in the pathogenesis of canine MCT or lymphoma without pruritus.

Agreement of serum allergen test results with unblocked and blocked IgE against cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants (CCD) and intradermal test results in atopic dogs.

BACKGROUND: Tests for allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) are used to select allergens for immunotherapy in atopic dogs. Antibodies against cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants (anti-CCD IgE) have been identified in serum samples of atopic dogs. Their presence in humans is a known cause of clinically irrelevant polysensitization to plant allergens. OBJECTIVES: To compare the results of an intradermal test (IDT) and a serum test for allergen-specific IgE, with and without blocking anti-CCD IgE, before testing in dogs. ANIMALS: Thirty-one privately owned dogs with atopic dermatitis. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Dogs were prospectively skin tested and their serum samples were analysed for anti-CCD IgE. An Fc-ε receptor-based serum test for allergen-specific IgE was performed with and without blocking anti-CCD IgE. RESULTS: In dogs with negative anti-CCD IgE samples, the agreement between the results of the serum test and the IDT was substantial (κ = 0.71). Dogs with positive anti-CCD IgE samples (38.7%) showed no agreement between serum and skin testing (κ = -0.35), blocking anti-CCD IgE in those samples resulted in a fair agreement (κ = 0.43). Anti-CCD IgE positive sera had multiple positive results for grass and weed allergens, and blocking decreased them markedly. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Intradermal testing agreed best with serum testing in dogs with no detectable anti-CCD IgE. Sera containing anti-CCD IgE had no agreement with IDT. Test agreement was improved by blocking the anti-CCD IgE. Apparent serum test polysensitization to plant allergens was associated with anti-CCD IgE.

Reactions to environmental allergens in cats with feline lower airway disease.

Objectives: Aeroallergens have been discussed as potential triggers for feline asthma (FA), which can be induced experimentally by allergen sensitization. To date, only few studies have investigated reactions to environmental allergens in cats with naturally occurring feline lower airway disease (FLAD). The aim of the study was to compare results of intradermal testing (IDT) and serum allergen-specific immunoglobulin E-(IgE) testing (SAT) in cats with FLAD, and to investigate possible associations with allergen exposure. Material and methods: Eight cats with eosinophilic airway inflammation (EI), ten cats with mixed inflammation (MI), six with neutrophilic inflammation (NI), and 24 healthy cats (HC) were included. Cats diagnosed with FLAD were assigned to the different inflammatory groups based on bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BLAF) cytology. SAT was performed in all cats; IDT was only carried out in cats with FLAD. Information about the cats' environment and potential allergen exposure was obtained using an owner questionnaire. Results: In comparison to 83% of HC with positive reactions on SAT only 52% of cats with FLAD had positive responses (p = 0.051). Significantly more positive reactions per cat were detected on IDT than on SAT (p = 0.001). No significant difference was found for positive reactions per cat on SAT when compared between HC, NI, EI, and MI (p = 0.377). Only "slight" agreement was found for most allergens when reactions obtained in both tests in cats with FLAD were compared, except for "moderate" agreement for English plantain (k = 0.504) and Alternaria alternata (k = 0.488). Overall, no clear association between the cats' environment and allergen reactions were detected. Conclusions and clinical importance: Interpretation of allergy test results in cats with FLAD should be done in the context of clinical signs and individual factors.

Morphological diagnosis and successful treatment of chorioptic mange in 2 South American coatis (Nasua nasua).

Two female South American coatis (Nasua nasua) kept in a zoo in Southern Germany presented with pruritus and moderate hair loss at the dorsal trunk, thigh areas and alongside the tail. Otherwise the animals showed no clinical signs. While the clinical general examination as well as cytology of dermatologic samples showed no pathologic changes, Chorioptes sp. mites could be identified in a superficial skin scraping. Two consecutive topical applications of a selamectin/sarolaner spot-on formulation 4 weeks apart lead to a complete resolution. No side effects were observed.

Topical treatment of multiple erosive, ulcerative skin lesions in an Indian rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis).

A 30-year-old, intact female Indian rhinoceros (Rhinocerus unicornis) was presented with ongoing erosive, ulcerative skin lesions over a 4-year-period. The lesions appeared to be non-pruritic and non-seasonal. A systemic antibiotic therapy had been unsuccessful. The dermatological examination showed 8 diffusely demarcated areas of erosion, focal ulceration, mild crusting, and moderate erythema ranging from 8 to 20 cm in diameter, bilaterally on the lateral edges of the torso armor plates. The patient had no other clinical abnormalities. Coccoid and rod-shaped bacteria were identified on cytology and a bacterial culture revealed Escherichia coli spp., Staphylococcus dysgalacticae, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Corynebacterium spp. and Micrococus spp. A topical product line containing essential fatty acids and plant extracts was administered daily, using a spot-on, spray and balm. Within 3 weeks a substantial alleviation of clinical signs was observed. Multiple impression smears of the lesions and a bacterial culture were negative by day 21. The patient achieved complete remission within 4 months of treatment and maintained remission for the 2-year observation period with continued use of the medication. Topically administered therapeutics containing essential fatty acids and plant extracts may offer a viable treatment option for recurrent cases of bacterial infectious skin lesions in Indian rhinocerotidae.

Clinical effects of 2 commercially available diets on canine atopic dermatitis.

OBJECTIVE: Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a common skin disease in dogs. Prior studies were able to determine beneficial effects of essential fatty acids (EFA) on the clinical signs of CAD. The aim of this study was set to evaluate the effects of a newly designed, EFA-enriched diet on the clinical signs of CAD compared to another EFA-enriched diet. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this prospective, randomized, double-blinded study, 31 privately owned dogs with atopic dermatitis received either the control diet (diet A, Hill's Prescription Diet™ d/d™ Salmon & Rice, n = 17) or the test diet (diet B, Veterinary HPM™ Dermatology Support D1, Virbac, n = 14) for 12 weeks. At the beginning of the study as well as after 4, 8 and 12 weeks, skin lesions and pruritus were evaluated via validated scores and the administered medication was documented. At the same time, the dogs' coat quality was evaluated via a distinct scoring system. In both groups, a total of 7 dogs each completed the entire study. RESULTS: After 12 weeks, there was a mild improvement in lesion scores, pruritus and coat quality with both diets. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In this study, both diets improved the patients' skin lesions pruritus and coat quality.

[Effects of a homeopathic medication on clinical signs of canine atopic dermatitis]. / Wirkung eines homöopathischen Arzneimittels auf die klinische Symptomatik von Hunden mit atopischer Dermatitis.

OBJECTIVE: A commercially available medication containing homeopathic ingredients showed first signs of success in atopic dermatitis in dogs. The aim of this case series was to evaluate the effect of the preparation in a larger number of dogs with atopic dermatitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Ten atopic dogs received the oral homoeopathic combination preparation daily for 3 weeks according to the manufacturer's specifications. The diagnosis of atopic dermatitis was made previously by medical history, clinical examination and exclusion of differential diagnoses. Skin infections with bacteria and yeasts were excluded by clinical examination and cytological evaluation of impression smears. In food-allergic dogs, an elimination diet was fed at least 2 months prior and during the entire study period. Patients with suspected or confirmed flea allergy received flea control for at least 1 month prior to and during the study. The clinical signs were evaluated before and after therapy using a validated Pruritus Visual Analogue Acale (PVAS) and the Canine Atopic Dermatitis Lesion Index (CADLI). The coat quality was assessed by the owners. Possible adverse effects were recorded at the recheck. RESULTS: There were no significant changes in the lesion score (Wilcoxon test, p = 1.0), pruritus score (paired t test, p = 0.34) and coat quality (paired t test, p = 0.34) over the duration of treatment. Only one patient showed a slight improvement in itching and coat quality. No side effects were observed. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In this case series, the tested homoeopathic preparation did not show a positive effect on the clinical signs of canine atopic dermatitis.

Recurrent polyp formation with Candida tropicalis infection and otitis in a dog.

To describe a case of a recurrent Candida tropicalis otitis externa, media and interna in a dog with an ear polyp. A 9-year-old Irish Setter was presented with 2 episodes of otitis sinistra, left-sided vestibular syndrome and Horner syndrome 7 months apart. At the first episode a benign ear polyp was extracted and Candida tropicalis cultured from the left middle ear. The neurological signs disappeared within 7 days, the Candida infection was more difficult to treat. Seven months later, a polyp was found in the ear again and cytology was consistent with Candida tropicalis. A unilateral left total ear canal ablation with lateral bulla osteotomy was performed and a middle ear culture confirmed Candida tropicalis. Treatment led to resolution of clinical signs. Candida tropicalis, an emerging pathogen, should be considered in cases of recurrent yeast otitis and may be difficult to treat.

Nasal transmissible venereal tumours in 12 dogs - a retrospective study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was a retrospective analysis of clinical manifestation and treatment outcome of the nasal form of transmissible venereal tumours (TVT). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twelve dogs suffering from nasal TVT were included in this study. Patients with primary genital lesions were excluded from the study. Signalment, physical examination and laboratory findings, results of further diagnostics, and treatment results were recorded in all patients. RESULTS: The study population comprised 9 male and 4 female dogs with an (estimated) age ranging from 3 to 7 years. With one exception all dogs originated from Ukraine. Symptoms of nasal TVT included sneezing, nasal bleeding (all cases), skull infiltration (9 cases), oronasal fistulas (9 cases) and cutaneous fistulas (5 cases). Animals received vincristine sulfate at 0.7 mg/m2 i. v. weekly. The treatment course consisted of 4-9 cycles (median 5 cycles). Complete remission was achieved in all cases. All dogs were disease-free during the follow-up period (median 23.5 months, range 12-56 months). All patients tolerated the treatment very well. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: In conclusion, our data suggest that nasal TVT can have a good response to vincristine treatment. TVT should be considered as a differential diagnosis in sneezing dogs with nasal discharge or bleeding especially in young dogs and in dogs with suspected nasal tumours, even in countries without a stray animal population.

Dermatophytosis in dogs and cats - an update. / Dermatophytose bei Hund und Katze ­ ein Update.

Dermatophytosis is a cutaneous infection, caused by several types of keratophilic fungi (dermatophytes). It represents a serious and common contagious skin disease in dogs and cats. The significance of this disease for pet owners is based on the zoonotic potential. The prevalence varies with climate and local dermatophyte infestation. The most common infection in dogs and cats are caused by the genera Microsporum (M.), Nannizzia (N.) or Trichophyton (T.). The aim of this article is to summarise novel taxonomy, diagnosis, and treatment recommendations as well as the recently revised recommendations of the World Association of Veterinary Dermatology.

[Targeting the skin - erythema multiforme in dogs and cats]. / Die Haut als Zielscheibe ­ Erythema multiforme bei Hund und Katze.

This review article will describe the complex nature of erythema multiforme in dogs and cats. The disease pattern will be illustrated in terms of etiology, pathogenesis, clinical signs, diagnostics and therapy. Erythema multiforme is a rare, immune-mediated skin disorder with an acute specific reaction pattern of skin and mucous membranes against different underlying causes. Reported triggering factors include drugs, food ingredients and neoplasias, but viral or bacterial infections and vaccine reactions were also identified. In over 20% of the cases the cause cannot be identified. The German Shepherd dog and Pembroke Welsh Corgi seem to be predisposed. Erythematous macules, slightly elevated and peripherally spreading papules as well as circular to arciform patterns were described frequently in the dog. Wheals, plaques, vesicles and bullae that develop into ulcers, are also seen. Frequently affected areas in the dog are the ventrum, mucocutaneous junctions, mouth, pinnae and foot pads. Histopathological findings include single cell necrosis in all layers of the epidermis with lymphocytic satellitosis and a cell-poor interface dermatitis. Elimination of the causative factors and concurrent symptomatic therapy are recommended. The prognosis varies from guarded to fair, depending on the underlying cause, presenting clinical signs and response to therapy.