Ichthyosis(ICT)
Also known as: Fischschuppenkrankheit · Ichthyose · Canine Ichthyosis · Fish scale disease · Epidermolytic hyperkeratosis · …
Overview
What it is
Ichthyosis is an inherited skin disorder where the outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, does not develop or shed properly. This defect in keratinization—the process of forming a protective outer skin barrier—leads to a buildup of dry, thick, and scaly skin. Because this barrier is compromised, the dog's body is more vulnerable to secondary infections.
How it presents
Symptoms usually appear during puppyhood, with owners noticing large, dry, and often dark scales on the dog's trunk and belly. Affected dogs may also experience mild to moderate itching and recurrent skin infections.
Treatment
This is a lifelong, incurable condition that requires ongoing management rather than a one-time cure. Treatment involves regular medicated baths and moisturizing therapies, with estimated lifetime costs ranging from 1,500 to 5,000 EUR.
How it's tested
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
Primary testDNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Labogen / Laboklin) — bündelt alle relevanten Erbkrankheiten der Rasse in einem Test.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Epidermolytische Hyperkeratose (EHK) DNA-Test(EHK)
Primary testDNA testEin DNA-Test, der die ursächliche Mutation im KRT10-Gen nachweist, um betroffene Hunde und symptomfreie Anlageträger der epidermolytischen Hyperkeratose zu identifizieren.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Embark Breed + Health Panel(Embark)
DNA testUS-Anbieter; 250+ genetische Erkrankungen + Abstammung. Anerkennung in DE/AT variiert je nach VDH-Verein.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
MyDogDNA Panel(MyDogDNA)
DNA testGenoscoper-basiertes Panel (Mars Petcare). 200+ Erkrankungen + Rassenkomposition.
Issuing body: MyDogDNA
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Ichthyosis?
Ichthyosis is an inherited skin disorder where the outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, does not develop or shed properly. This defect in keratinization—the process of forming a protective outer skin barrier—leads to a buildup of dry, thick, and scaly skin. Because this barrier is compromised, the dog's body is more vulnerable to secondary infections.
How is Ichthyosis tested?
Tests currently in our database: Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Epidermolytische Hyperkeratose (EHK) DNA-Test, Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: American Bully, Dobermann, Goldendoodle, Norfolk Terrier, Parson Russell Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.