Disease Ontology ID: DDTO:0000750

Disease Description: A skin infection of the nose.

Inherit Mode: -

Disease Symptom: Many diseases may cause these conditions in dogs. These may affect the bridge of the nose (the muzzle), the nose itself, or both. In cases of pyoderma (skin infection), dermatophytosis ("ringworm"), and demodicosis (a type of mite infestation), the haired portions of the nose are affected. In systemic lupus erythematosus or pemphigus (types of immune-mediated diseases), the whole muzzle is often crusted (with occasional oozing of serum) or covered with ulcers. In systemic and discoid lupus, and occasionally in pemphigus and skin lymphoma, the nose loses color and reddens; eventually the area near the nose may develop ulcers.

Disease Cause: Nasal dermatosis due to solar radiation is probably a rare disease and may be misdiagnosed as lupus. In true nasal solar dermatitis, the nonpigmented areas around the nostrils are affected first, and occasionally the bridge of the nose may become inflamed or ulcerated. These changes are worse in the summer, although lupus and pemphigus may also show this seasonal variation.

Disease Diagnose: Treatment depends on the cause. Diagnostic tests performed by your veterinarian will likely include skin scrapings, bacterial and fungal cultures, and biopsies. The prescribed treatment will depend on the results of the diagnostic tests.

Treat Method: If the diagnosis is nasal solar dermatitis, a topical steroid lotion may help relieve inflammation. Exposure to sunlight must be severely curtailed. Topical sunscreens may be effective but need to be applied at least twice daily. You should be aware that not all sunscreen lotions prepared for human use are safe for use on dogs. Your veterinarian can recommend a sunscreen that will be tolerated by your dog.

Breeder Advice: -

Disease Description Source: Link