Dermatomyositis Disease in Dogs

Canine dermatomyositis is an inflammatory condition affecting dogs' skin and muscles, particularly in Collies and Shetland Sheepdogs, with symptoms including difficulty swallowing, atypical gait, and skin manifestations on the face, ears, tail, and extremities. It has a genetic basis with an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance and can be triggered by environmental factors. Diagnosis involves clinical history, physical examination, skin biopsy, electromyogram, and lab tests. The condition is often confused with other causes of alopecia like demodicosis, bacterial folliculitis, and dermatophytosis. Recent studies have identified three genetic loci associated with the disease in Shetland Sheepdogs. Treatment typically includes glucocorticoids, pentoxifylline, and vitamin E, but there is a need for better treatment options to improve the quality of life for affected dogs.