Sebadenitis is a progressive inflammatory change in the sebaceous glands of the skin in dogs and cats, which ultimately leads to their irreversible destruction. The disease was first described in dogs in 1986.
The exact cause of the disease is still unknown, which is why it is referred to as an idiopathic disease. There are speculations that it is an autoimmune disease or a cornification disorder of the skin that causes the sebaceous glands to become inflamed. However, since there is a racial predisposition in Akitas, poodles, Vizslas, Chow Chows, and English Springer Spaniels, it is assumed that the disease, or at least the predisposition to it, is hereditary.
To better understand what exactly happens during sebadenitis, let's briefly explain the structure of the skin. The sebaceous glands are located in the dermis and open onto the hair follicles, where the hair shafts are located. The sebum produced by the sebaceous glands is continuously secreted into the hair follicles and travels along the hair to the skin's surface via an excretory duct. There, the sebum acts as a kind of greasy protective film that protects the skin and hair from drying out and pathogens. The sebaceous glands are also responsible for the keratinization of the skin.
The inflammation usually begins in the area surrounding the sebaceous glands and then spreads within the gland until it is completely destroyed. This results in a lack of sebum production and secretion, leading to keratinization disorders and hair loss. Characteristic of the disease is the loss of large tufts of hair stuck together with skin flakes, including the hair roots, which usually occurs locally on the head, ears, and tail at the onset, but can then spread to the entire body. Excessive keratinization of the skin occurs and the coat often becomes dull and brittle. Due to the lack of a lipid film, the skin becomes dry, scaly, and very susceptible to secondary infections with bacteria, fungi, or viruses. These lead to further deterioration of the skin, often accompanied by purulent inflammation with itching and a strong odor. Ear infections also occur occasionally. At this stage, the affected animals usually show signs of significant general discomfort.
The disease occurs in episodes, which can be triggered by various factors such as a change in diet or stress. Between episodes, the signs of the disease may subside significantly. In the chronic stage of the disease, the coat is thin, grayish in color, and covered with hairless patches.
The general examination in conjunction with a detailed preliminary report only allows the veterinarian to make a tentative diagnosis. To confirm this suspicion, a tissue sample, known as a skin biopsy, should always be taken and examined histologically. To do this, small skin samples are taken from inflamed areas under local anesthesia. Inflamed or destroyed sebaceous glands can then be detected under the microscope. This also allows similar-looking diseases such as demodicosis or leishmaniasis to be ruled out.
Based on current knowledge, there is no causal treatment for this disease. Therapy is limited to alleviating symptoms and combating secondary infections.
The primary goal in the treatment of sebadenitis must be to keep inflammatory reactions to a minimum and to mitigate excessive reactions of the immune system. The administration of immunosuppressive drugs (drugs that suppress the immune system) can slow the progression of the disease in the short term, but is not suitable for lifelong therapy due to harmful side effects. Moisturizing substances can be used to try to replace the missing protective film on the skin and make it more resistant.
Since the disease itself cannot be cured, treatment of an affected dog must be continued for life. Avoiding any stress factors can help prevent new flare-ups.
There is no cure for this disease. If the patient responds to symptomatic treatment, the prognosis is cautious if treatment is continued for life.
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