Fluorescent Light Energy in the Management of Multi Drug Resistant Canine Pyoderma: A Prospective Exploratory Study
Andrea Marchegiani1, Alessandro Fruganti1, Marilena Bazzano1
1School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62024 Matelica, Italy.
Abstract:
The increase in prevalence of staphylococcal antimicrobial resistance has been also associated with pyoderma in dogs, and prolonged antibiotic treatment, as often needed in severe cases of pyoderma, has been related to influencing possible development of multidrug resistance (MDR). Fluorescent light energy (FLE) has been indicated to improve pyoderma lesions as adjunct therapy to systemic antibiotics. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of FLE on clinical signs of MDR canine deep pyoderma (CDP) and interdigital furunculosis (CIF) when administered as solely management. Sixteen client-owned dogs affected by CIF (five dogs) and CDP (eleven dogs) were scored using a dedicated scoring system and received a single FLE applications twice weekly, until clinical resolution was achieved. Mean time to achieve complete resolution was 5.20 ± 3.56 weeks (median 3 weeks) for CIF cases and 4.18 ± 1.47 weeks (median 4 weeks) for CDP ones. FLE shows promise as an aid to managing clinical signs while reducing reliance on antibiotics for MDR CDP and CIF. In this study, FLE was responsible for the decrease in lesion scores and resolution of MDR pyoderma infection without any adjunct therapy, having a potential useful role to play in antibiotic stewardship programs, efficiently promoting complete clinical resolution of MDR lesions while optimizing the use of antibiotics.
Insights
Fluorescent light energy (FLE) effectively treated multidrug resistance (MDR) canine pyoderma and interdigital furunculosis without antibiotics. This approach shows promise for managing resistant infections and supporting antibiotic stewardship.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research
- Photomedicine
Background:
- Staphylococcal antimicrobial resistance is increasing, linked to canine pyoderma.
- Prolonged antibiotic use for severe pyoderma may drive multidrug resistance (MDR).
- Fluorescent light energy (FLE) has shown potential as an adjunctive therapy for pyoderma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of FLE as a sole management strategy for MDR canine deep pyoderma (CDP) and interdigital furunculosis (CIF).
Main Methods:
- Sixteen dogs with CIF or CDP received FLE applications twice weekly until clinical resolution.
- Lesion severity was assessed using a dedicated scoring system.
- FLE was administered as the only treatment, without systemic antibiotics.
Main Results:
- Complete clinical resolution was achieved in a mean of 5.20 weeks for CIF and 4.18 weeks for CDP.
- FLE alone led to decreased lesion scores and resolution of MDR pyoderma infections.
- No adjunct therapy was required during FLE treatment.
Conclusions:
- FLE demonstrates potential as a standalone therapy for managing clinical signs of MDR canine pyoderma and interdigital furunculosis.
- This treatment modality can reduce reliance on antibiotics, supporting antibiotic stewardship programs.
- FLE offers an effective method for achieving complete clinical resolution of MDR lesions.
