It may not be allergies! | Pet Peeves
When we think of skin problems in dogs, topping the list will always be allergies. Allergies to fleas, pollens, molds and various foods can cause hair loss, infection and inflammation of skin. But, there are other causes of skin problems in our dogs. While fleas, pollens and foods are grouped under the umbrella term of “allergies,” this alternative group of skin problems is labeled “endocrine disorders.”
Endocrine disorders represent problems that occur because hormones in the body have malfunctioned. The thyroid hormone is one of the body’s hormones that can become out of balance. When a dog has hypothyroidism (low thyroid levels), its metabolic processes slow down. In addition to gaining weight and lethargy, hair loss occurs at friction points such as the elbows, hips and tail. If the dog is shaved for any reason, the hair can take months to grow back — if it grows back at all. These dogs also become more prone to skin infections. Ear infections also become more common. When diagnosed, hypothyroidism can be treated with an oral supplement.
Hyperadrenocorticism is another fairly common endocrine disorder. It is seen in older dogs, and can present with the symptoms of drinking large amounts of water and urinating frequently. Overproduction of steroids by the adrenal glands causes the symptoms. The skin begins to thin, and there is excessive hair loss. The hair loss is symmetrical, and occurs over the back and trunk. Hyperpigmentation of the skin can occur. Infections are more common. In really severe cases, the skin can develop something called calcinosis cutis. This involves the deposition of calcium in the skin, resulting in whitish, bone-like plaques. The treatment for this, once it has been diagnosed, is a medicine that will suppress a portion of the adrenal cortex. The treatment itself has its own dangers. If your pet is diagnosed with Cushings, talk to your veterinarian about the pros and cons of treating the disease.
Another endocrine disorder involves estrogen in the female. Ovarian imbalance type I is too much estrogen. Ovarian imbalance type II involves too little estrogen. Type I typically occurs in unspayed females. Cystic ovaries can play a part. These dogs have hyperpigmentation of the armpit and inguinal area, as well as enlarged vulva and nipples. The skin in the armpits and between the back legs is inflamed and thickened in addition to being darker. These dogs can demonstrate false pregnancies, and are more prone to pyometra, a life-threatening uterine infection. The treatment for this condition is to have the pet spayed.
Type II ovarian imbalance is not very common, but will occur in spayed females. The low estrogen levels cause a juvenile appearance of the vulva and nipples. These dogs tend to lose hair on the chest, belly and inguinal area, but there are no signs of inflammation. The skin is smooth. It can respond to estrogen therapy, but, really, no treatment is necessary. It is not a life-threatening disease, and giving an estrogen supplement can have its own serious side effects.
If your pet is having problems with its skin, usually you can blame it on the typical allergies, but there is a possibility that a hormonal imbalance can be involved.
This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: It may not be allergies! | Pet Peeves
