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Pemphigus Foliaceus
DermatologyAll SpeciesNew
Key Points
  • Pemphigus foliaceus is an autoimmune skin condition, characterised by acanthylosis and the formation of pustules, erosions and crusts
  • It’s the most common autoimmune skin disease in dogs and cats
  • Lesions typically affect the face, pinnae and footpads
  • Diagnosis is confirmed with histopathology to visualise acantholytic keratinocytes and sterile inflammation
  • The mainstay of treatment is immunosuppressive therapy with glucocorticoids ± steroid-sparing alternatives
    • Accurate diagnosis is critical before starting treatment as immunosuppressive therapy can drastically worsen misdiagnosed infections
  • Monitoring is essential to assess disease control once treatment has been started and any adverse drug effects
Differential Diagnoses
  1. Bacterial pyoderma
  2. Dermatophytosis
  3. Demodicosis
  4. Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE)
  5. Zinc-responsive dermatosis
Overview
Aetiology
Clinical Signs
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Resources
Overview

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Aetiology

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Clinical Signs

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Diagnosis

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Treatment

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Prevention

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Resources

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Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →