Sebaceous Adenitis in Dogs

Is your dog experiencing skin and fur problems like itchiness, lesions, and hair loss? They may be suffering from sebaceous adenitis. Our vets in Mankato have provided information on symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. 

What is Sebaceous Adenitis in Dogs?

Sebaceous adenitis is an immune-related disorder that affects the sebaceous glands in the skin of your dog. The sebaceous glands produce the oils necessary to help protect your pup's skin and keep their coat healthy and shiny. Sebaceous adenitis most commonly occurs in younger dogs.

It is important to detect this disorder early to prevent any permanent damage to your dog's sebaceous glands.

What Are The Signs and Symptoms of Sebaceous Adenitis?

The symptoms of sebaceous adenitis in dogs vary depending on the length of their fur.

The signs of sebaceous adenitis in long-haired dogs may include: Patchy hair loss Dull, brittle coat Scaly white skin that doesn't easily flake Scattered matted fur Lesions, especially along the head and spine Severe skin infections

The signs of sebaceous adenitis in short-haired dogs include: Patchy hair loss Scaly white skin Reddish tint Lesions on the head, ear flaps, and torso Scarring of the skin Rarely, bacterial infections

What Dog Breeds Are More Commonly Affected?

Although the cause of sebaceous adenitis in dogs is not clearly understood, certain breeds are more prone to it than others.

Some of the breeds that may be more predisposed to sebaceous adenitis include:

Standard Poodle Chow Chow Samoyed Viszla Havanese

Akita German shepherd Miniature Pinscher Beagle Dachshund

Diagnosing Sebaceous Adenitis in Dogs

Your vet will first examine the skin for signs of sebaceous adenitis, including scarring, lesions, and infection. Once the visible signs have been noted, your vet will use the tools available in the diagnostic lab to perform a biopsy in order to provide an accurate diagnosis. 

Sebaceous Adenitis Treatment Options

Some available treatment options that may be used to successfully treat sebaceous adenitis are topical therapies, oral antibiotics, and medications.

To treat this condition, various topical therapies are available such as shampoos, sprays, and mousses. These therapies help reduce flaking, soothe the skin, and treat any bacterial infection that may have developed. If your dog's skin does not respond well to topical therapies, your vet may suggest oral antibiotics to prevent antibiotic resistance.

In some cases, medication like cyclosporine may be recommended, but it can cause the immune system to attack the sebaceous glands. Your vet may also suggest supplements like Vitamin A and essential fatty acids to complement the treatment options. However, it's best to consult your vet to determine the best treatment plan for your dog's needs.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.