TLDR The dog had sebaceous adenitis, treated with ciclosporin, leading to some hair regrowth.
A 3-year-old neutered Japanese Akita presented with a 6-month history of progressive hair loss, primarily affecting the legs, rump, perineum, head, neck, and shoulders. The dog showed no pruritic behavior and was otherwise healthy. Diagnostic tests, including trichogram, skin scrapes, and biopsies, indicated sebaceous adenitis (SA), characterized by the absence of sebaceous glands and follicular casts. Treatment with oral ciclosporin and sporadic topical therapy led to early hair regrowth, though the hair coat remained dry and brittle. SA is a non-pruritic, largely cosmetic disease, often requiring ongoing treatment. The pathogenesis is likely immune-mediated, with a higher incidence in certain breeds, including the Japanese Akita.
24 citations,
May 2010 in “Veterinary dermatology” Oral ciclosporin A and topical treatments both reduce hair loss and scaling in dogs with sebaceous adenitis, but using both together is most effective.
1 citations,
January 2008 in “Elsevier eBooks” The document concludes that various disorders can cause hair loss in dogs, each requiring different treatments, and some may heal on their own.
1 citations,
November 2014 The document explains hair and nail biology, common hair loss conditions and treatments, oral and genital skin diseases, and the risks and treatments associated with squamous cell carcinoma.
September 2010 in “Companion Animal” The guide explains how to diagnose and treat hair loss in dogs, covering causes and treatments, with some conditions lacking treatment options.
Accurate diagnosis and tailored treatments are crucial for managing hair loss in humans and animals.
7 citations,
July 1999 in “In Practice” The conclusion is that a systematic approach is key for treating symmetrical alopecia in dogs, but treatment may not always be necessary.
