Introduction to Dermatological Diagnosis

Introduction to Dermatological Diagnosis

• This presentation outlines an approach to diagnosing dermatological problems in animals.

Learning Objectives

• Students will be able to take an accurate dermatological history.
• Students will be able to construct a diagnostic plan.
• Students will be able to recognize common skin diseases and their causes.
• Students will be able to recognize and select appropriate diagnostic methods.

History Taking

• A comprehensive clinical history is crucial for determining the cause and extent of a dermatological problem.
• Owners may not fully understand the significance of the animal's normal history.
• Questionnaires can be utilized to gather important details from pet owners, especially in inherited or ongoing cases.
• History should include basic animal details like age, breed, sex, and color.

History Details

• Age of the animal and age of onset of the condition are important factors.
• Breed predilections for certain skin conditions should be considered but not used to exclusion of other diagnoses.
• Color of the animal may indicate increased risk for certain skin diseases..
• The owner's chief complaint and when the problem started should be investigated.
• Prior tests or treatments should be documented, if any. Severity variations as time goes on should be established..

History - What Happens at Home

• Details of other pets and their health status should be inquired.
• Information about human household members with skin conditions are important.
• Daily routines of the animal, including time spent indoors or outdoors and sleeping and exercise locations, need to be recorded.
• Dietary habits, including types of food and treats, appetite, and thirst are also important.
• Flea control practices are to be determined.

Clinical Exam

• A thorough physical examination is necessary.
• Careful examination of the entire body and mucous membranes, including the feet and areas between toes, is important.
• Identification of symmetrical or localized distribution patterns of lesions is important in diagnosis.

Pattern and Lesion Recognition

• Lesion distribution facilitates differential diagnosis.
• Flea allergy dermatitis is often associated with scabs on the back.
• Cats often lick their ventral abdomen.
• Acral lick dermatitis may result from licking limbs.

Primary Lesions

• Macules, papules, plaques, pustules, vesicles, wheals, and nodules are discussed as primary skin lesions, as well as their descriptions and associated pathogeneses.

Secondary Lesions

• Epidermal collarettes, erosions, and ulcers are identified as secondary skin lesions. Also, lichenification and their descriptions and pathogeneses.

Diagnostic Tests

• Cytology (skin scrapes, impression smears, tape strips, and ear cytology) is essential for many skin conditions.
• Specific cultures and biopsies might be necessary
• Allergen-specific immunotherapy should be considered based on history and clinical findings.

Therapeutic Trials

• Elimination diets are useful in identifying food allergies.
• Insect control trials can be employed if insect hypersensitivity is suspected.

This quiz focuses on dermatological diagnosis in animals, emphasizing the importance of history taking and recognizing common skin diseases. Students will learn to construct a diagnostic plan and select appropriate diagnostic methods based on comprehensive clinical information. Develop your understanding of diagnosing pets' skin conditions.