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Schnauzer comedo syndrome is a relatively common skin disease seen predominantly in Miniature Schnauzers. This disorder represents a developmental cornification disorder. It bears similarity to developmental hair follicle dysplasia seen in humans, termed nevus comedonicus.
Comedones develop in a band along the spine. The severity and clinical signs vary among individual dogs. Most typical cases are carachterized by small crusted papules, nodules or comedones. Comedones may be small and require hand lens to be identified. Larger comedones are characterized by inflamed dilated hair follicles which contain dark keratinous debris. Mild scaling and swelling may be seen in more severe cases which can be accompanied by a bacterial infection and scarring.
A similarly identical disorder is occasionally seen in Cairn terriers and other rough-coated terriers. Age or sex predilection have not been reported.
Treatment
Long-term treatment is necessary. Topical treatments include antiseborrheic shampoos, especially those containing sulfur, salicylic acid, tar, and benzoyl peroxide. In case of secondary infections antibiotics may be prescribed as well as retinoids.
Benzoyle Peroxide
Benzoyle peroxide is included with antiseborrheic agents but also has superior antimicrobial activity. It is often formulated at 2.5% to 3% in veterinary products owing to its irritating effects at higher concentrations. Also, the excellent drying activity of benzoyle peroxide shampoos often necessitates the use of emollients or alternating treatments with a milder product. It should be purchased by prescription only from a reputable supplier as the bottle design is important for keeping the ingredients intact [4].
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Animal Calendars
References
1. Skin Diseases of the Dog and Cat: Clinical and Histopathologic Diagnosis. Thelma Lee Gross
2. UC Davis Book of Dogs. Mordecai Siegal
3. Skin Diseases of the Dog Sue, MA, VetMB, DVD Paterson
4. The 5-minute veterinary consult clinical companion: small animal dermatology. Karen Helton Rhodes
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Skin Problem Topics to Explore
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Go Pets America recommends seeking the advice of your local veterinarian for the most appropriate vaccination program and for the diagnosis and treatment of your pet's health problems. For vaccination requirements please contact your state and local licensing authorities.
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