Skin Rash

Spring rains are wonderful, but if it rains too much and the humidity is too high for too long lots of Bullies, mostly those white or light in color, are going to have a fungal Skin Rash appear. The contention of the below aritcle is that something has to be wrong with the Bully for this to become a problem, I'm not convinced but I will not argue and I would surely have a Bully checked by a Vet for an underlying problem if quick results were not seen by using the below information.

Disclaimer: I'm not accountable for anyone's stupidity. - Judy

Malassezia (fungus) Infections

Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

Malassezia pachydermatis is a yeast that is commonly found on the skin of most dogs and cats. This yeast normally exists without creating any problems; however, in some cases, they can grow and reproduce in abnormal numbers.

Where is Malassezia found? Malassezia is found on dogs and cats throughout all of North America. It is not considered a problem in healthy dogs and cats, and is found in small numbers on the skin. It is commonly found in the ear canal, anal sacs, vagina, and rectum. Malassezia infections can infect dogs of all ages and breeds, but are not as common in cats. There are several dog breeds that appear to have an increased susceptibility to developing Malassezia infections including the Silky, Australian, Maltese, and West Highland White Terriers, Chihuahuas, Poodles, Shetland Sheepdogs, and German Shepherd Dogs.

Why do dogs get Malassezia infections?
Any hereditary or infectious disease that weakens the skin's immune system can allow a Malassezia infection to begin. Animals that have an underlying condition such as a bacterial infection, allergy, or seborrhea can have irritated skin that is then susceptible to becoming infected with Malassezia. Some animals, particularly those listed in the breeds above may have a weakened immune system, specifically with their T lymphocytes. These are the cells which help control Malassezia.

What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of a Malassezia infection often start in the high humidity months of summer and will persist into the fall. Itchy skin is almost always present with these infections. Because of the scratching, the dog may further traumatize the skin. The yeast may be localized on the ear, muzzle, toes, anal area, or may be generalized, covering most of the body. Dogs with the generalized form will often have an offensive, greasy smell and may suffer from oily, scaly skin. Dogs with localized muzzle infections may rub their face or have fits of scratching on their face. If the yeast is in the ear, they may shake their head and scratch their ears. Dogs with infections on their toes may lick their feet constantly. Hair loss, redness, hyperpigmentation (blackening of the skin), and thickening of the skin may also be present.

Many ear problems in dogs are also associated with Malassezia. As with skin infections with Malassezia, the yeast start to grow when the environment in the ear canal changes due to another disease condition such as allergies or a bacterial infection.

How is a Malassezia infection diagnosed?
The best way to diagnose Malassezia is with a positive identification of the organism under the microscope. The lesion can be scraped, swabbed, or scotch tape can be used to obtain a sample. Most infections will have a large number of yeast present that will confirm the diagnosis. Laboratory cultures can also be performed to identify the organism. However, because Malassezia can be present on a healthy animal, there may always be some doubt as to if it is the causative agent of the symptoms. Therefore, diagnosis is usually confirmed by response to treatment.

How are Malassezia infections treated?
Treatment can be approached in several different ways. For a long-term solution to the problem the underlying condition must be properly treated, whether it is a bacterial infection, allergy, or seborrhea. Once all of the underlying conditions are addressed, then either localized or generalized treatment can begin.

To provide an inhospitable environment for Malassezia, lipids on the skin need to be removed. Chlorhexidine shampoos that are 1% or stronger, and shampoos containing benzoyl peroxide and sulfur can be used. Selsun Blue Shampoo for people also has a good effect against Malassezia in some dogs, although it can be irritating. Human shampoos containing ketoconazole have also been used. (Above underline and highlighting by PuppyGal)

(Note By PuppyGal: I have been told by several people that Neutrogena T-Gel Shampoo has resolved the problem with their Bully - I have not tried this product so I have no idea if if works or not. Ask your vet about using it. Active Ingredients: 2% Neutar Solubilized Coal Tar Extract (0.5% Coal Tar). Inactive Ingredients: Purified Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamide DEA, Laureth-4, Fragrance, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Tetrasodium EDTA.)

For localized treatment of very small areas, miconazole cream is applied twice daily for several weeks. (Note By PuppyGal: Jock Itch & Athelets Foot Creams or Sprays contain miconazole)

For dogs with more severe cases, or in those that are resistant to topical treatment, oral ketoconazole or itraconazole can be administered for several weeks. A response is generally seen within 1-2 weeks, however, therapy needs to continue for an additional 3-5 weeks. Both of these oral antifungal drugs are very effective, but because of their potentially toxic side effects and expense, they should only be used under direct veterinary supervision.

Ear infections with Malassezia are treated by cleaning the ears 1-2 times daily. Ear cleaners containing acids such as acetic or boric acid help to maintain a pH that inhibits the growth of yeast. After cleaning and allowing the ear to dry, appropriate topical medications containing nystatin, thiabendazole, or clomitrazole can be used. Again, the underlying condition must also be treated or treatment for the yeast infection will be unsuccessful.

Conclusion

Malassezia is a common yeast found on almost every dog. It is almost always associated with severe itching in dogs, and is often misdiagnosed as skin allergies. The organism can be readily identified with a skin scraping and treatment is usually successful. If your dog has itchy skin or hair loss and has failed to respond to conventional treatments make sure your veterinarian checks her for the ever-present Malassezia.