Fold dermatitis/pyoderma
Also known as: Intertrigo · Skin fold dermatitis · Hautfaltenentzündung · Hautfalten-Dermatitis · Fold pyoderma · …
Overview
What it is
Fold dermatitis, also known as intertrigo, is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs within deep skin folds. When skin rubs against skin, it traps moisture, heat, and debris, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast to overgrow. This leads to localized skin infections, particularly in breeds with pronounced facial, lip, or tail folds.
How it presents
Owners will typically notice redness, hair loss, a damp appearance, and a strong, unpleasant odor inside the skin folds, often accompanied by scratching or rubbing. These signs usually first appear during puppyhood or adolescence as the dog grows and its skin folds deepen.
Treatment
The condition is manageable, often requiring lifelong topical treatment with medicated cleansers, though surgical removal of the folds can offer a permanent cure. Depending on whether lifetime management or surgery is chosen, overall costs typically range from 500 to 4000 EUR.
How it's tested
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Fold dermatitis/pyoderma?
Fold dermatitis, also known as intertrigo, is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs within deep skin folds. When skin rubs against skin, it traps moisture, heat, and debris, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast to overgrow. This leads to localized skin infections, particularly in breeds with pronounced facial, lip, or tail folds.
How is Fold dermatitis/pyoderma tested?
Various clinical and genetic tests are used depending on the breed and presentation.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Bloodhound, Boston Terrier, English Springer Spaniel, Neapolitan Mastiff, Pekingese, Pug, Shar-Pei.