Management of pemphigus foliaceus and other autoimmune skin diseases in dogs.
Key Facts
Pemphigus foliaceus causes crusting and pustules on the face, ears, and paws
Immunosuppressive therapy with steroids and other agents is required for management
Akitas, Chow Chows, and Dobermanns have elevated genetic risk
Skin biopsy is essential for definitive diagnosis
Well-managed pemphigus allows acceptable quality of life despite lifelong treatment requirements
Welfare Considerations
Autoimmune skin diseases cause significant pain and discomfort, and immunosuppressive therapy while complex to manage significantly improves welfare outcomes.
What You Can Do
Seek veterinary dermatology referral for dogs with severe or unresponsive skin disease
Maintain regular monitoring appointments for dogs on immunosuppressive therapy
Learn to recognise signs of immunosuppression-related infections in treated dogs