Content
- Canine lupus: what is it
- Systemic Canine Lupus Erythematosus
- Canine lupus erythematosus discoid
- Canine lupus: diagnosis
- Canine Lupus Is Cured?
- Is Canine Lupus Contagious?
- Canine lupus: life expectancy
O canine lupus it is an autoimmune disease that presents itself in two forms, affecting only the skin or the entire organism of the dog. Both diagnosis and treatment will depend on the type of presentation of the disease, and even more importantly, the prognosis.
Next, in this article by PeritoAnimal, you will learn to identify the symptoms that may make you think that your dog is suffering from this disease and we will give you the key points to know how to act in case of the appearance of canine lupus.
Canine lupus: what is it
Lupus is one of the autoimmune diseases in pets, that is, it is a disease in which the organism attacks itself. Specifically, a deposit of immune complexes occurs in the skin or in different organs. It is believed that there are some predisposing causes, such as exposure to ultraviolet rays, modified live virus vaccines or the vaccine itself. individual genetics. Although some caregivers think that lupus in dogs is cancer, the truth is, as we just explained, this statement is not true.
We can find two manifestations of canine lupus, which are called systemic lupus erythematosus and discoid lupus erythematosus. The former is a multisystemic autoimmune disorder, whereas canine discoid lupus erythematosus is more benign and mild, limited to the skin only.
Systemic Canine Lupus Erythematosus
Thus, in the systemic presentation, we can find a variety of symptoms, depending on the affected organs, which are mainly the skin, kidneys, heart or joints. Joint pain, episodic fever, kidney problems, anemia or, if the mouth is affected, stomatitis may occur.
In addition, arise ulcer-like lesions on the skin, especially on the face, especially on the nose, and on the paws, specifically on the pads, which thicken, ulcerate and, in more severe cases, may even fall. The area around the nails can also become infected, which can cause them to come off. Skin problems evolve from erosions to scabs and shedding of hair. The first symptom could be a limp that changes paw or a staggering gait.
Canine lupus erythematosus discoid
Canine discoid lupus erythematosus is a relatively common immune disease in which there is lesions limited to the face and ears, although in some puppies they can also be found in the genital region or in the foot pads. It usually starts with the appearance of a small lesion that is noticeable as a colorless or reddish area. Over time, these injuries become ulcers and scabs.
Depending on each case, there will also be pain and itching. We may notice that sunlight makes symptoms worse. There are indications that there are breeds more likely to suffer from this problem, such as the Border Collie, German Shepherd or Siberian Husky.
Canine lupus: diagnosis
At first, it may be difficult to see that your dog has lupus, as, as we have seen, the symptoms can be so varied. Thus, to reach the diagnosis of canine lupus, it is common to have to eliminate other causes. For this, the veterinarian will pay attention to your dog's medical history and clinical picture.
Usually, several studies are necessary. It is essential to perform a blood and urine test, but for a definitive diagnosis, it will be necessary to perform a biopsy and an antibody test.
On the contrary, in the case of discoid lupus erythematosus, its identification is simpler, as the appearance and location of the lesions, when the dog does not have other symptoms, usually serve to make a direct diagnosis.
Canine Lupus Is Cured?
Lupus in dogs is a disease that has treatment, but this will depend on the presentation. Thus, in the case of discoid lupus, dog lupus remedies orally and topically, with steroids and, if necessary, antibiotics. It also seems beneficial to administer. vitamin E orally.For systemic lupus erythematosus, immunosuppressants should be used to stop the body's attack on itself, in addition to the treatment needed for the symptoms caused in Organs affected organs. In general, it is necessary avoid exposure to sunlight or apply protectors when the exposure is going to occur, because as we have seen, these rays aggravate the problem and can increase the dog's discomfort.
Is Canine Lupus Contagious?
Many people wonder if canine lupus is contagious, but if you look at the characteristics of lupus in dogs, you can see that it's not a contagious disease, because it is caused by a failure in the dog's immune system, which causes it to attack its own cells. This defect is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from one animal to another, it is a unique circumstance. Therefore, it is not necessary to establish any control measures. in that regard.
Canine lupus: life expectancy
Lupus in dogs is treatable, as we've already seen, but in the case of systemic lupus, its prognosis is reserved, it will depend on the damage it produces in different organs. The condition is especially delicate when the kidneys are affected. Systemic discoid lupus, on the other hand, can usually be successfully treated. Of course, we should not overlook the effects of treatment, because when the immune system is suppressed to prevent it from attacking the body, it also increases the defenseless dog's propensity to suffer from other diseases, especially bacterial ones, which complicate the situation. It is essential to always consult the veterinarian.
This article is for information purposes only, at PeritoAnimal.com.br we are not able to prescribe veterinary treatments or perform any type of diagnosis. We suggest that you take your pet to the veterinarian in case it has any type of condition or discomfort.