Dermatologic emergencies: identification and treatment

Skin disease is one of the most common reasons dogs and cats are taken to the veterinarian. While many dermatologic conditions cause mild, localized signs, some, such as erythema multiforme, toxic epidermal necrolysis, cutaneous vasculitis, cutaneous drug eruptions, and thermal burns, can cause severe cutaneous signs and may have serious systemic consequences. These patients may present on an emergency basis and require intensive monitoring, diagnostics, and care. Lack of familiarity with these conditions may delay diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Pyotraumatic dermatitis may also prompt owners to seek emergency veterinary care due to the severe appearance of associated lesions.