Discoid lupus erythematosus

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For discoid lupus erythematosus in humans, see lupus erythematosus.

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is an uncommon autoimmune disease of the skin in dogs. It is rare in cats. It does not progress to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in dogs. SLE can also have skin symptoms, but it appears that the two are either separate diseases or DLE is a mild form of SLE.^[1] DLE in dogs differs from SLE in humans in that plasma cells predominate histologically instead of T lymphocytes.^[2] Sun exposure may play a role in DLE.

[edit] Symptoms

Canine discoid lupus erythematosus showing loss of noseprint, depigmentation, ulceration and tissue destruction - all characteristic of the syndrome

The most common initial symptom is scaling and loss of pigment on the nose. This is found in up to 90 percent of dogs.^[1] The surface of the nose becomes smooth, instead of the normal cobblestone texture. Over time the lips, the skin around the eyes, the ears, and the genitals may become involved. Lesions may progress to ulceration and lead to tissue destruction. DLE is often worse in summer due to increased sun exposure.

[edit] Diagnosis

DLE is easily confused with solar dermatitis, pemphigus, ringworm, and other types of dermatitis. Biopsy is required to make the distinction. Unlike in SLE, an anti-nuclear antibody test is usually negative.^[1]

[edit] Treatment

Avoiding sun exposure and the use of sunscreens (not containing zinc oxide, which is toxic to dogs) is important. Topical therapy includes corticosteroid use. Oral vitamin E or omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are also used. More refractory cases may require the use of oral corticosteroids, azathioprine, or chlorambucil. Treatment is often lifelong, but there is a good prognosis for longterm remission.

[edit] Commonly affected breeds

• Collie
• German Shepherd Dog
• Shetland Sheepdog
• Siberian Husky
• Brittany Spaniel
• German Shorthaired Pointer^[2]

[edit] See also

• Lupus erythematosus

[edit] References

1. ^ ^{a b c} Ettinger, Stephen J.;Feldman, Edward C. (1995). Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 4th ed., W.B. Saunders Company. ISBN 0-7216-6795-3.
2. ^ ^{a b} Griffin, Craig E., Miller, William H.; Scott, Danny W. (2001). Small Animal Dermatology, 6th ed., W.B. Saunders Company. ISBN 0-7216-7618-9.