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Alopecia areata universalis in a dog
Pedro J Ginel1, Beatriz Blanco1, María Pérez-Aranda1
1Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Córdoba, Campus de Rabanales, 14014, Córdoba, Spain.
Veterinary Dermatology
|July 1, 2015
Summary
This study documents the first canine case of alopecia areata universalis (AAU), a T-cell mediated autoimmune disease. Treatment with ciclosporin led to significant hair regrowth, with no relapse after discontinuation, suggesting potential spontaneous resolution.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Autoimmune Diseases
- Immunohistopathology
Background:
- Alopecia areata is a T-cell mediated autoimmune condition affecting various mammals.
- Alopecia areata universalis (AAU) is a severe form characterized by total hair loss, previously described only in humans.
Observation:
- A 9-year-old dog presented with 12-14 months of generalized, non-inflammatory alopecia, affecting all body hair, including vibrissae and eyelashes.
- Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses of skin biopsies confirmed long-standing alopecia areata.
Findings:
- Oral ciclosporin treatment induced substantial hair regrowth in the affected dog.
- Despite initial regrowth, some facial hair (muzzle, eyelashes, whiskers) remained absent after 17 months of therapy.
Implications:
- This is the first reported case of canine alopecia areata universalis, aligning with human diagnostic criteria.
- Ciclosporin showed efficacy, and the lack of relapse post-treatment suggests potential for spontaneous remission in canine AAU.
- The findings contribute to understanding autoimmune alopecia in veterinary medicine and potential treatment outcomes.
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