lupus in dogs is an autoimmune pathology that we can detect in two presentations, depending on whether it affects only the skin or the entire organism. Precisely whether it is one type or the other will depend on both the diagnosis and the treatment and, very importantly, the prognosis.
Next, in this article on our site, we will learn to identify the symptoms that can make us think that our dog is suffering from this disease and we will give you the keys so that you know how to act in the event of its appearance of lupus in your dog.
What is lupus?
Lupus is an autoimmune disease, that is, it is a disease in which the body attacks itself. Specifically, there is a deposit of immune complexes in the skin or in different organs. It is believed that there are some predisposing causes, such as exposure to ultraviolet rays, modified live virus vaccines or the genetics of the individual Although some caregivers think that lupus is cancer, the truth is that, as we have seen, this statement is not true.
We can find two manifestations of lupus in dogs, which are called systemic lupus erythematosus and discoid lupus erythematosus. The former is a multisystem autoimmune disorder, while discoid lupus erythematosus in dogs is more benign and mild, being confined to the skin only.
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Thus, in the systemic presentation we can find a variety of symptoms, depending on the organs that are affected, which are above all skin, kidneys, heart or jointsJoint pain, episodic fever, kidney problems, anemia or, if the mouth is affected, stomatitis may occur.
In addition, lesions appear on the skin ulcer-like, especially on the face area, especially on the nose, and the legs, specifically in the pads, which thicken, ulcerate and even, in the most serious cases, can fall off. The area around the nails can also become infected, even falling off. Skin problems range from breakouts to scabs and hair loss. The first symptom may be a limping that changes legs or a wobbly gait.
Discoid lupus erythematosus
Discoid lupus erythematosus is a relatively common immune disease in which limited lesions occur on the face and ears, although in some dogs we will also find them in the genital region or the pads. It usually begins with the appearance of a small lesion that can be seen as a colorless or reddened area. Over time they end up becoming ulcers and scabs
Depending on each case there will also be pain and itching. We will be able to notice that sunlight worsens the symptoms. It seems that there are breeds with a greater propensity to suffer from it, such as the border collie, the German shepherd or the Siberian husky.
Diagnosis of lupus in dogs
At first, it may be difficult for us to think that our dog has lupus, since, as we have seen, the symptoms can be very varied. Thus, to reach a diagnosis of lupus, it is common to have to rule out other causes To do this, the veterinarian will pay attention to our dog's medical history and clinical picture.
various studies are often needed. It is essential to perform a blood and urine test, but for a definitive diagnosis, it will be necessary to perform a biopsy and an antibody test.
On the contrary, in the case of discoid lupus erythematosus, its identification is easier because the appearance and location of the lesions, if the dog does not present other symptomatology, usually serve to directly hit your diagnosis.
Is lupus in dogs curable?
Lupus in dogs is a pathology that can be treated, but this will depend on the presentation. Thus, in the case of discoid, oral and topical medication is prescribed, based on corticosteroids and, if necessary, antibiotics. It seems that it is also beneficial to administer vitamin E orally For systemic lupus erythematosus immunosuppressants have to be usedto stop the body's attack against itself, in addition to the necessary treatment for the symptoms derived from the organ that is affected.
In general it is necessary to avoid exposure to sunlight or apply sunscreen if it is going to occur, since, as we have Seen, these rays aggravate the problem and could increase the discomfort for the dog.
Is lupus in dogs contagious?
When we see the characteristics of lupus in dogs we can see that it is not a contagious pathology, since it is due to a failure in the dog's immune system causing it to attack its own cells. This defect is not contagious, it is not possible for it to be transmitted from one animal to another, it is a unique circumstance. Therefore, it is not necessary to establish any control measures in that sense.
Life expectancy of a dog with lupus
Lupus in dogs, as we can see, is treatable but, in the case of systemic lupus, its prognosis is guarded, because it will depend on the damage it produces in the different organs. The picture is especially delicate when the kidneys are affected. Discoid systemic lupus, on the other hand, can usually be treated successfully. Of course, we must not lose sight of the effects of the treatment, since, when the immune system is suppressed to prevent it from attacking the organism, it also increases the propensity for the dog, without defenses, to suffer other diseases, especially bacterial, which complicate the picture. We will always consult with the veterinarian.
