Canine superficial necrolytic dermatitis – review

Abstract

Canine superficial necrolytic dermatitis (SND) is a progressive debilitating skin disorder commonly associated with liver abnormalities. It is an erosive skin disease with multifocal distribution, usually in the foot pads, mucocutaneous junctions and extremities of the limbs. The pathogenesis of SND in dogs is not known, and may be related to liver disease, mycotoxicosis and use of anticonvulsant drugs. SND manifests itself insidiously, especially in adult dogs, with no breed or gender predisposition. Therapy is supportive, improving the animal’s quality of life and survival time, with most animals dying within a few months of diagnosis, regardless of the proposed treatment.