Discoid lupus erythematosous

Abstract

PHOTOS 1-2: DLE (discoid lupus erythematosous) is a common skin condition in dogs. It causes nasal depigmentation, erythema, scaling, erosions, ulcerations and crusting. The lesions may involve the lips, bridge of the nose, periocular skin, ear pinnae, distal limbs and genitalia. Diagnosis is via dermatohistopathology and immunofluorescence of skin biopsy specimens. Treatment includes the use of symptomatic shampoos to remove crusts, avoiding exposure to sunlight or sunscreens, topical glucocorticoids, tetracycline and systemic therapy with vitamin E supplementation.REFERENCES: PHOTOS 1-2: Medleau, L & Hnilica, KA 2006, ‘Small animal dermatology : a color atlas and therapeutic guide’, 2nd ed., Saunders Elsevier, St. Louis, pp. 204-205.