Scaling and crusting in dogs: Part 1 – diagnostic approach

Scaling and crusting disorders are common presentations in canine clinical practice. They can occur secondary to pruritus, infection, hormonal/nutritional/metabolic imbalances, and neoplasia, or be manifestations of a primary keratinisation defect. Primary keratinisation defects include idiopathic seborrhoea, ichthyosis, vitamin A-responsive dermatosis, zinc-responsive dermatosis, follicular dysplasia, acne, schnauzer comedo syndrome, and sebaceous adenitis. A primary keratinisation defect can be diagnosed only when secondary scaling & crusting disorders have been eliminated. A thorough, methodical diagnostic approach is required.