Clinical and Microscopic Features of Generalized Discoid Lupus Erythematosus in Dogs (10 Cases)

The document summarizes a study on 10 dogs with generalized discoid lupus erythematosus (GDLE), a condition similar to human GDLE. The dogs, of various breeds and middle to late adulthood, displayed chronic skin lesions with features such as annular plaques, pigment changes, erythematous margins, scaling, follicular plugging, and central alopecia. Histopathological examination revealed interface dermatitis, BMZ thickening, and other changes, while direct immunofluorescence showed IgG and IgM deposits at the BMZ. Treatments included ciclosporin, hydroxychloroquine, topical tacrolimus, and tetracycline/niacinamide, with 50% of the dogs achieving complete remission and the other 50% showing partial remission within 3-6 months. However, relapses were common after reducing medication dosages. The study concluded that canine GDLE shares clinical and microscopic features with human GDLE and requires ongoing therapy for management.