Focal Alopecia in Dogs
August 2017
in “
Companion animal
”
focal alopecia pruritus inflammatory alopecia non-inflammatory alopecia infections parasites immune-mediated conditions neoplasia hair formation abnormalities hair cycle arrest hypothyroidism hyperadrenocorticism skin scrapes trichography cytology biopsies itching hair loss thyroid issues Cushing's disease skin tests hair analysis cell study tissue samples
Studysummary This article discusses the diagnostic approach to focal alopecia in dogs, focusing on distinguishing between pruritic skin disease and inflammatory or non-inflammatory causes; it presents no new experimental results.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The 2017 document outlines that focal alopecia in dogs is a dermatological condition with various causes, including self-inflicted trauma due to pruritus, inflammatory and non-inflammatory processes. Inflammatory alopecia can be caused by infections, parasites, immune-mediated conditions, or neoplasia, while non-inflammatory alopecia may be due to hair formation abnormalities or hair cycle arrest, with conditions like hypothyroidism and hyperadrenocorticism as possible factors. Diagnosis involves a thorough history, physical and dermatological examination, and tests such as skin scrapes, trichography, and cytology, with additional blood samples and biopsies if needed. The document highlights the necessity of distinguishing between different causes of alopecia to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
