Pyoderma is a skin infection in dogs. It can be surface, superficial or deep, and certain breeds of dogs are especially susceptible to this condition. Though any dog can get a pyoderma infection, dogs that have deep skin folds--such as English bulldogs and Shar-Peis--are the dogs most commonly suffering from pyoderma.
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Causes
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Pyodermas can be caused by a number of conditions, but they generally stem from the skin's prolonged exposure to moisture. Lick wounds including acral lick dermatitis and "hot spots," as well as moisture trapped in deep skin folds, are the usual causes of surface pyoderma. Superficial pyoderma is usually caused by an immunosuppressive disease or therapy or an untreated infestation of fleas or lice. Deep pyodermas are caused most often by a suppressed immune system caused by either an autoimmune disease or the chronic use of steroids.
Diagnosis and Treatment
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Diagnosis is the key to successfully treating a pyoderma infection. A veterinarian will culture the pus to determine the bacteria causing the infection before prescribing an antibiotic treatment. If open wounds are present, proper wound care techniques will be employed to promote healing. In the case of surface pyodermas, skin folds and other irritated skin must be cleaned and allowed to dry to stop the infection. Certain tests to diagnose immunological diseases may also be performed, including blood tests and other diagnostic procedures.
Preventive Measures
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Prevention is the best medicine for pyodermas. In dogs that have proved to be susceptible to hot spots or fold pyodermas, keeping the skin clean and dry is paramount to preventing the infection. Dog owners also should ensure that the dog's skin is parasite-free by using monthly topical flea prevention. Dogs that struggle with immune system deficiencies should be monitored for signs of superficial or deep pyodermas and may require ongoing antibiotic therapy, as the condition is likely to return.
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