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P‐49
Pemphigus foliaceus confined to the nails in a Hungarian short‐haired pointer
Author(s) -
Guaguere E.,
DegorceRubiales F.
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
veterinary dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.744
H-Index - 60
eISSN - 1365-3164
pISSN - 0959-4493
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-3164.2004.00414_49.x
Subject(s) - pemphigus foliaceus , medicine , dermatology , prednisolone , nail (fastener) , surgery , immunology , autoantibody , metallurgy , antibody , materials science
We describe a case of pemphigus foliaceus (PF) confined to the nails in a 3‐year‐old male Hungarian short‐haired pointer. The dog was presented with multiple painful nails causing lameness. Various treatments (antibiotics, antiseptic lotions) were ineffective. The lesions were confined to the nails. Dermatological examination showed sub‐ or intraungueal pustules progressively causing onychomadesis. Examination of the inside of the nails revealed a yellowish malodorous material. Some nails exhibited onychoschizis and onychogryphosis. An erythematous perionyxis was observed around some nails. Cytology of this yellowish material showed nondegenerative neutrophils and numerous acidophilic acantholytic keratinocytes. Fungal and bacterial cultures performed from nails were negative. Histopathological examination of an entire nail revealed the presence of stratified pustules within the nails and under the nail. These pustules contained nondegenerative neutrophils, eosinophils and numerous acidophilic acantholytic keratinocytes. These lesions were compatible with pemphigus foliaceus. Prednisolone (1 mg/kg twice daily, orally) plus a dermocorticoid (clobetasol, twice daily) was prescribed for 1 month. Clinical improvement was observed. The same treatment was discontinued for another month. Then, the dosage of prednisolone was tapered to a 3‐day regimen for 2 months with daily clobetasol applications. During the following 6 months, topical therapy was discontinued. Four relapses were observed within 4 years. This is the first report of a case of PF strictly confined to the nails. Funding: Self‐funded.