Pododermatitis (Interdigital Dermatitis)

By: Dr. Rosanna Marsalla

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Treatment In-depth

Symmetric lupoid onychodystrophy. Therapy includes the use of high doses of essential fatty acids or anti-inflammatory doses of glucocorticoids. Secondary infections need to be addressed at the same time.

Fungal infections of the nails. Therapy includes systemic antifungal drugs and may take several months (average of 6 months). Itraconazole is preferred over griseofulvin and ketoconazole because of its affinity for nails and its residual activity after discontinuation of therapy. Terbinafine (Lamisil®) has also great affinity for nails and long residual activity. No study has been done to determine the appropriate dose in dogs.

Hookworm dermatitis. Treatment includes cleaning of the premises, frequent removal of feces and topical thiabendazole for the feet and routine antihelmintic treatment for all dogs in the kennel.

Idiopathic digital hyperkeratosis. Therapy is based on topical keratolytics (propylene glycole 1/1 with water, tar). Oral retinoids may be beneficial. Therapy should be continued for several weeks before improvement is evident.

Bacterial infections of the nails. Systemic antibiotics for 6 to 8 weeks is usually necessary. The presence of osteomyelitis may warrant P3 amputation.

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