Small Animal Dermatology Q&A 15
This question was provided by Manson Publishing as part of the OVAL Project. See more small animal dermatological questions |
A dog was presented for weight gain, hair loss, polyuria, and polydipsia. The owner is also concerned about the loss of the dog’s ear tip. She reports the ear tip bleeds, becomes necrotic, heals, and then the cycle repeats. Physical examination of the ear tip revealed that approximately one-third of the right ear tip has been sloughed as a result of these cycles.
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This dog is showing the classic clinical signs of which endocrine disorder? | This dog is showing classic signs of canine hyperadrenocorticism. Note the bilaterally symmetrical hair loss, pendulous abdomen and prepuce, and ‘rat tail’. |
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What are the possible pathophysiologies of ear tip necrosis in this dog? | Ear tip necrosis can be seen in cases of canine hyperadrenocorticism, particularly in breeds with small thin ear pinnae. The cause is unknown, but it may be related to micro thromboembolisms. |
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What other nonendocrine diseases can be characterized by ear tip necrosis? | Other causes of ear tip necrosis include
Feline auricular chondritis is characterized by swollen, erythematous ears that are usually curled and deformed. |
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