Autoimmune Skin Disease (Pemphigus) in Dogs
Key takeaways
Pemphigus is a group of autoimmune skin diseases. In dogs, there are different types of pemphigus that affect different parts of the skin and vary in severity.
- The cause of pemphigus is often unknown, but there may be a predisposition in certain breeds; some cases are brought on by recurrent skin inflammation or as a side effect of certain medications or due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light
- Symptoms typically include pustules (pus-filled blisters), redness, blistering, ulceration, and crusting of the skin
- Pemphigus is diagnosed by skin biopsy
- Treatment of pemphigus is steroids, with or without additional immunosuppressant medication
- Secondary skin infections are common and may be difficult to treat
- Prognosis varies; some cases are fatal, while some can be effectively managed
- Pemphigus has a high rate of recurrence
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A closer look: Autoimmune Skin Disease (Pemphigus) in Dogs
Pemphigus lesions are often painful and warrant timely veterinary care. Some dogs go into remission for variable amounts of time and can be weaned to low levels of medication, or even go off medication for a while. Rates of recurrence are high and many cases require life-long management with ongoing veterinary recheck examinations.
There are 4 subtypes of pemphigus in dogs which all have slight variation in severity and presentation.
Pemphigus foliaceus is the most common subtype.
Pemphigus erythematosus is similar to foliaceus, but milder.
Pemphigus vulgaris is the most severe subtype. This form of pemphigus can lead to skin ulceration, painful blisters, and painful secondary skin infections.
Bullous pemphigoid is the rarest form of pemphigus. Symptoms may include large fluid filled swellings and hives.
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Risk factors
Pemphigus in dogs is rare overall. Of the 4 subtypes, pemphigus foliaceus is the most common autoimmune skin disease in dogs.
Dogs with severe cases may have loss of appetite and lethargy. Some dogs may also present with fever.
Possible causes
In some cases, the cause of pemphigus cannot be determined. Other potential causes may include:
- Certain medications
- Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure
- Allergies
- Breed predisposition
Main symptoms
Symptoms vary by pemphigus subtype.
Testing and diagnosis
The first step in diagnosing pemphigus is a thorough health history, especially any pre-existing skin conditions. Various skin tests may be conducted to rule out other conditions. Definitive diagnosis can only be made by skin biopsy.
Blood tests may be ordered to rule out concurrent conditions.
Steps to Recovery
Treatment is with steroids, with or without additional immunosuppressants. Referral to a dermatologist may be recommended.
While full remission can occur, pemphigus usually recurs. Treatment can maintain a good quality of life, but in some cases, this cannot be achieved and humane euthanasia may be considered.
Prevention
There is no specific prevention for pemphigus. General good health practices, including regular veterinary care, may be helpful to avoid potential viral causes. UV exposure can worsen symptoms, so keeping pets indoors as much as possible and using pet-safe sunblock may help.
Is Autoimmune Skin Disease (Pemphigus) in Dogs common?
Pemphigus is rare in dogs.
Typical Treatment
- Steroids (systemic or topical)
- Immunosuppressant drugs
- Antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections
