Pyoderma in Dogs
There are three types of pyoderma which are classifed by the depth of the lesions: surface (infection on the skin surface), superficial (infection within the skin layer) and deep (infection below the skin layer).- Surface pyoderma is a primary infection typically caused by your dog scratching and biting an itchy patch of skin. Superficial and deep pyodermas are generally secondary infections indicative of another illness such as an immune system disorder, hormonal disorder or cancer.
Pyoderma first appears as a rash on your dog's nose, chin, feet or trunk. If allowed to progress, the infection may develop pustules (pus-filled pimples); blood blisters; red, itchy lesions; crusty, scaly or discolored skin spots; inflammation; or hair loss.- Common tests used to diagnose pyoderma include a detailed medical history, complete blood count (CBC), blood chemistry tests, cytology, culture and biopsy. Further tests may be ordered to determine the underlying cause of the pyoderma.
Treatment for your dog's pyroderma may include antibiotic medication and an anti-bacterial cream or shampoo. If your veterinarian has diagnosed an underlying illness, specific treatment for that condition will be prescribed.- The prognosis for dogs with pyoderma varies. If the cause of the pyoderma is successfully identified and treated, the prognosis is good. Otherwise, the pyoderma could become a recurrent problem.
