The Many Different Skin Problems in Pets
 

1. Primary skin disease:
   Primary are those that affect the skin directly, such as flea hypersensitivities.
     
2. Secondary skin disease:
   Secondary diseases are those that initially involve other organs and thereby effect the skin, such as hypothyroidism.

The following are some of the common diseases affecting the skin and a brief description of their diagnosis and treatments.
  

Hot Spots or Acute Moist Dermatitis:
Hot spots are usually a result of self trauma and a resulting infection that occurs as your pet tries to relieve itself from some pain or itch. Treatment includes thorough cleaning, topical and systemic antibiotics, and anti- inflammatory agents.
 
Hypodermal:
Hypodermis includes a wide range of infections that result in the formation of pus. Pyodermas vary in severity. Treatment is similar to that for hot spots, but typically is longer term. Shampoos and rinses are also helpful.
    
Atopy or Allergic Inhalant Dermatitis: Atopy is a very itchy skin disease, which is the result of allergies to microscopic particles in the air. Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation and absence of other causes such as ectoparasites. Treatment includes dietary supplements, antihistamines and steroids, and is often long term. In very refractory cases skin allergin testing and hyposensitization may be helpful. Shampoos and rinses are also often helpful.
  
Ectopararsites: (external parasites) include mites, fleas and ticks. These parasites break the barrier formed by the skin and allow bacterial infections to occur. They may lead to allergic conditions. Diagnosis is achieved with gross observation and microscopic examination of skin scrapings. Treatments depend on the parasites present and include antiparasitic drugs and antiparasitic shampoos and rinses.