Discoid Lupus Erythematosus in Dogs

Breeds documented
5
Published sources
2

Overview

An immune-system attack on the skin can cause the nose to lose color, become inflamed and develop sores. Discoid lupus erythematosus most often affects the nose, though nearby facial skin may also be involved. Sunlight can worsen the skin changes. A generalized form can cause patches of affected skin on other parts of the body.

Signs to watch for

  • Fading color on the nose
  • Red, irritated skin around the nose
  • Scaling or crusts on the nose
  • Open sores on the nose or nearby facial skin
  • The nose losing its usual textured surface

The facial form has been reported from one to twelve years, with a median of seven.

When to get help Book a vet visit if you notice new loss of nose color, crusting or sores.

Diagnosis and tests

A vet examines the affected skin and takes a detailed history. Small skin samples, called biopsies, are examined under a microscope to help confirm the diagnosis. Other diseases can cause similar nasal changes, so appearance alone is not enough for a reliable diagnosis.

Breeds with documented risk

5 breeds

By breed size
  • 1 Small
  • 3 Medium
  • 1 Large

Inheritance

  • Not yet known

    None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.

Sources

  1. vet.cornell.edu
  2. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov