Abstract
Sebaceous adenitis (SA) is characterized by a cutaneous inflammatory process targeting the sebaceous glands. It has been described in several species and breeds. A developmental, possibly inherited, disorder of the sebaceous glands or an immune‐mediated disease, triggered by unknown stimuli, is currently suspected. The authors describe clinical data, histopathological and therapeutic aspects of SA in three related Hovawart dogs (a dam, and a male and female off‐spring of this dam from different sires). In all three dogs, the skin lesions developed around the fifth year of age and they were characterized by a generalized hypothricosis, hyperpigmentation, scaling and rat‐tail. Trichography revealed blocks of keratin within the hair shafts. Superficial and deep skin scraping and fungal culture were negative. On histopathological evaluation of skin biopsy specimens, there was an advanced pattern of SA, with marked follicular keratosis and mixed perifollicular inflammatory infiltrate targeting and destroying sebaceous glands. Complete blood count, biochemical investigation, T4, fT4 and TSH were within the normal range. A leishmania test (IFAT) was negative. Treatment was started with weekly keratolytic shampoos, 50% propylene glycol dips and baby oil applications. Oral administration of 1 mg/kg once daily of prednisone acetate and 1 mg/kg once daily of etretinate for 3 months gave partial amelioration of the skin lesions. The diagnosis of SA in three related Hovawart dogs suggests a genetic basis in this breed, and we suggest that breeding of affected and related dogs should be avoided. Funding: Self‐funded.
Published Version
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