Seborrhea
Also known as: Primary Seborrhea · Seborrhoea · Seborrhoe · Idiopathic Seborrhea · Seborrhoische Dermatitis · …
Overview
What it is
Primary seborrhea is an inherited skin disorder where the body's natural process of shedding and replacing skin cells happens much too quickly. This rapid cell turnover disrupts the skin's protective barrier and causes an overproduction of sebum, which is the natural oil produced by the skin's glands. As a result, the skin becomes either excessively greasy or very dry and flaky.
How it presents
Owners may notice mild flaking in puppies as early as 10 weeks of age, with more severe symptoms developing by 18 months. These symptoms typically include greasy, foul-smelling fur, heavy scaling, recurrent ear infections, and thickened paw pads.
Treatment
While the condition is incurable and requires lifelong management, it can be controlled with regular medicated baths and treatment for secondary infections. Lifetime veterinary care and topical treatments typically cost between €2,000 and €6,000.
How it's tested
Klinische Untersuchung und Hautbiopsie(Hautbiopsie)
Primary testClinical examDie Diagnose der kutanen Muzinose erfolgt primär klinisch und wird durch eine histopathologische Untersuchung einer Hautbiopsie (Stanzbiopsie) gesichert.
Issuing body: vet
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 Seborrhea?
Primary seborrhea is an inherited skin disorder where the body's natural process of shedding and replacing skin cells happens much too quickly. This rapid cell turnover disrupts the skin's protective barrier and causes an overproduction of sebum, which is the natural oil produced by the skin's glands. As a result, the skin becomes either excessively greasy or very dry and flaky.
How is Seborrhea tested?
Tests currently in our database: Klinische Untersuchung und Hautbiopsie.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: West Highland White Terrier, Basset Hound, Dachshund, Dobermann, Irish Red Setter, English Springer Spaniel, German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever.