Clinical, Haemato-biochemical, and Histopathological Studies on some Dermopathies in Dogs

Almost all dermatology patients have a primary or underlying disease that causes secondary infections. In this study, primary dermatological diseases were investigated as well as concurrent secondary infections to reach a definitive diagnosis that will lead to proper treatment and cure. The present work included 65 dogs which divided into 2 groups. Control group (20 apparently healthy dogs) and diseased group (45 dogs). All dogs were clinically examined; blood samples were collected for estimation of CBC (Complete blood count), ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase), AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase), BUN (Blood urea nitrogen), Creatinine, Thyroid profile FT4 (free thyroxine-4), TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and Cortisol. Only diseased dogs were subjected to skin scraping examination while biopsies from skin lesions were obtained for histopathological examination. Results showed significant (P ≤0.01) leukocytosis in diseased group compared to control one. Skin scraping revealed mites infestation (sarcoptic mite), (Demodectic mite: demodex canis). Also, ectothrix and endothrix spores of dermatophytes were detected (Microsporum canis). Histopathological examination revealed various changes in epidermal as well as dermal layer in different dermopathies. Conclusion: the present work indicated that, clinical examination, skin scraping and laboratory tests (CBC, Biochemistry and hormonal profiles) for different dermopathies in dogs will drive to initial diagnosis, whereas histopathological examination for skin biopsies will guide to a definite diagnosis and furthermore specific therapeutic strategies.