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Metabolic epidermal necrosis in two dogs with different underlying diseases
1Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire.
The Veterinary Record
|May 6, 1995
Summary
Metabolic epidermal necrosis in dogs presents a distinct skin reaction pattern. This condition, characterized by footpad hyperkeratosis and skin lesions, can be linked to various underlying systemic diseases.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Canine Pathology
Background:
- Metabolic epidermal necrosis (MEN) is a recognized skin reaction pattern in dogs.
- Understanding the diverse systemic origins of MEN is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Observation:
- Two dogs presented with MEN, exhibiting hyperkeratosis, erythematous, erosive, and crusting lesions on the muzzle, genitalia, perineum, and periocular regions.
- Histopathology revealed superficial hydropic dermatitis with marked parakeratosis.
- Both dogs showed elevated alkaline phosphatase and alanine aminotransferase, high glucose, and hypoaminoacidemia.
Findings:
- One dog's MEN was associated with metastatic pancreatic carcinoma expressing glucagon, leading to hyperglucagonemia.
- The second dog's MEN was linked to diffuse hepatic disease and cirrhosis, with normal plasma glucagon levels.
- These cases highlight that MEN can arise from distinct underlying pathologies.
Implications:
- Metabolic epidermal necrosis serves as a cutaneous manifestation of potentially different systemic diseases in dogs.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the precise pathogenesis of MEN skin lesions.
- This study underscores the importance of comprehensive systemic evaluation in dogs diagnosed with MEN.