Open AccessErythema multiforme in the dog
Author(s) -
C. Paitaki,
A. F. Koutinas,
Manolis N. Saridomichelakis
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
journal of the hellenic veterinary medical society
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.186
H-Index - 7
eISSN - 2585-3724
pISSN - 1792-2720
DOI - 10.12681/jhvms.15450
Subject(s) - erythema multiforme , histopathology , erythema , medicine , pathology , dermatology , connective tissue , hypersensitivity reaction , immunology
Canine erythema multiforme is a rarely seen skin eruption that is characterized by variable clinical signs and a rather distinctive histopathology. From a clinical point of view erythema multiforme is of particular interest, mainly due to its life-threatening potential. It is considered a host-specific cell-mediated hypersensitivity reaction, leading to epidermal and follicular wall keratinocyte apoptosis. Although the exact pathomechanism is not currently fully understood, it is often associated with drugs, infections, neoplastic and connective tissue diseases, adverse food reactions and idiopathy. Definite diagnosis is based on the clinical and histopathological findings and therapy aims to the elimination of the triggering factors and the institution of supportive measures. The usefulness of glucocorticoids in canine erythema multiforme is still controversial.