Canine Superficial Necrolytic Dermatitis

CE Superficial necrolytic dermatitis (SND) is a rare disease that is often overlooked in the differential diagnosis of dermatologic diseases. SND affects middle-aged or older dogs and is characterized by crusting and scaling of the skin. Hyperkeratosis of the footpads is often present. In dogs, the disease is most commonly associated with a hepatopathy. SND bears a striking resemblance to necrolytic migratory erythema in humans. However, the disease in humans is most often associated with a glucagon-secreting tumor of the alpha cells of the pancreatic islets.Treatment options are limited.The prognosis in dogs is poor. skin lesions. Affected dogs are usually 4 to 16 years of age. No breed or sex predilection has been proven; however, some clinicians believe terriers are overrepresented. SND is characterized by an erosive, crusting, and scaling dermatopathy distributed symmetrically over the face, distal paws, and inguinal area as well as in areas of constant friction (Figure 1). Mucocutaneous junctions, the genital area, and pressure points are often affected (Figure 2). Secondary bacterial colonization frequently develops. There may also be marked hyperkeratosis, fissuring, and ulceration of the footpads (Figure 3). Common owner complaints include lethargy, anorexia, weight loss, and difficulty or painful walking in affected dogs. The skin lesions frequently wax and wane in severity, making evaluation of therapy and definitive diagnosis difficult. Signs of the underlying condition, usually a hepatopathy, might also be seen. However, not all dogs have signs of severe hepatic disease at the time of skin lesion development. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY The pathogenesis of SND in dogs is unknown. NME in humans is usually associated with a glucagon-secreting neoplasm; therefore, Canine Superficial Necrolytic Dermatitis Lisa M. Cellio, DVM, DACVIM Jeff Dennis, DVM, DACVIM Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center Overland Park, Kansas Send comments/questions via email [email protected] or fax 800-556-3288. Visit CompendiumVet.com for full-text articles, CE testing, and CE