Disease Ontology ID: DDTO:0000898

Abbreviated Name: DLE

Disease Description: A form of autoimmune disease affecting the skin.

Inherit Mode: -

Disease Symptom: The most common initial symptom is scaling and loss of pigment on the nose. This is found in up to 90 percent of affected dogs.The surface of the nose becomes smooth gray, and ulcerated, instead of the normal black cobblestone texture. Over time the lips, the skin around the eyes, the ears, and the genitals may become involved.Lesions may progress to ulceration and lead to tissue destruction. DLE is often worse in summer due to increased sun exposure.

Disease Cause: -

Disease Diagnose: DLE is easily confused with solar dermatitis, pemphigus, ringworm, and other types of dermatitis. Biopsy is required to make the distinction. Histopathologically, there is inflammation at the dermoepidermal junction and degeneration of the basal cell layer. Unlike in SLE, an anti-nuclear antibody test is usually negative.

Treat Method: Avoiding sun exposure and the use of sunscreens (not containing zinc oxide, which is toxic to dogs) is important. Topical therapy includes corticosteroid use. Oral vitamin E or omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are also used. More refractory cases may require the use of oral niacinamide and tetracycline, corticosteroids, azathioprine, or chlorambucil. Treatment is often lifelong, but there is a good prognosis for long-term remission.

Breeder Advice: -

Disease Description Source: Link