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Panniculitis (Inflammation of Subcutaneous Fat) in Dogs

Occurrence: rarer
Location of illness: Skin/Fur

Panniculitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the subcutaneous fat in dogs. This inflammation can be triggered by various causes and leads to palpable lumps or swelling under the skin.

The most important facts at a glance

Panniculitis in dogs is an inflammation of the subcutaneous fat, which lies directly under the skin and consists of fat cells. This tissue layer serves as an energy store, insulator, and protective cushion for internal organs. The inflammation can be triggered by various factors such as trauma, infections, autoimmune diseases, or foreign body reactions. In some cases, the cause remains unknown, and the disease is referred to as idiopathic.

Typical symptoms are lumps in the skin that are firm and easily movable, as well as local redness and pain. In severe cases, the lumps can break open and release a yellowish, brownish, or bloody secretion. A diagnosis is made by a clinical examination, supplemented by fine needle aspiration or biopsy. Blood tests and imaging procedures such as X-rays or ultrasound may be necessary to rule out other conditions.

Treatment depends on the cause: antibiotics or antifungals for infections and immunosuppressive drugs for autoimmune reactions. For foreign bodies or injuries, surgical removal of the affected tissue may be necessary. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs relieve the symptoms. The prognosis is usually good with timely diagnosis and treatment, but may require long-term care for idiopathic or autoimmune panniculitis.

Research focuses on genetic predispositions, the role of the immune system, and the development of new diagnostic and treatment methods. Advances in imaging diagnostics and molecular tests could enable earlier and more accurate diagnoses.

Causes

The subcutaneous fat, also known as subcutaneous adipose tissue, is a layer of tissue that lies directly under the skin and consists of fat cells. It serves as an energy store, insulator, and protective cushion for internal organs and structures. Panniculitis occurs when this tissue is affected by an inflammatory reaction.

Various factors can trigger inflammation of the subcutaneous fat. Common causes include trauma, infections, autoimmune diseases, or reactions to foreign bodies. In some cases, the exact cause remains unknown, and the panniculitis is referred to as idiopathic.

Trauma, such as bite wounds or blunt force injuries, can damage the tissue and cause an inflammatory reaction. Infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or parasites can also attack the adipose tissue. Autoimmune diseases, in which the dog’s immune system attacks its own tissue, can also trigger panniculitis.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The most common symptoms of panniculitis in dogs are the formation of lumps or swelling under the skin. These lumps can feel soft or firm and vary in size. They are often painful and may enlarge or harden over time.

In addition to the palpable lumps, dogs with panniculitis may have hair loss and redness at the affected sites. In some cases, ulcers and purulent discharge may occur if the inflamed areas open.

Systemic symptoms, such as fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite, may also occur, especially if the inflammation is caused by an infection or a systemic disease.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of panniculitis begins with a thorough clinical examination by a veterinarian. The veterinarian will examine the dog’s skin for lumps, swelling, and other signs of inflammation. A complete history, including information about previous injuries or illnesses, can also be helpful.

To confirm the diagnosis, a fine needle aspiration or biopsy of the affected area can be performed. In a fine needle aspiration, a small amount of tissue is removed with a fine needle and examined under a microscope. A biopsy provides a larger tissue sample for histopathological examination to assess the type of inflammation and the presence of infectious agents or signs of an autoimmune reaction.

Additional tests, such as blood tests, X-rays, or ultrasound, may be necessary to rule out or identify underlying systemic diseases.

Therapy

The treatment of panniculitis depends on the underlying cause. If an infection is present, antibiotics or antifungals may be prescribed to combat the pathogens. For autoimmune causes, immunosuppressive drugs may be necessary to control the immune response.

In cases where the panniculitis is caused by foreign bodies or traumatic injuries, surgical removal of the affected areas may be necessary. Removal of necrotic tissue and cleaning of the wound can help promote healing.

Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to relieve the symptoms and improve the dog’s comfort. Close monitoring by the veterinarian is important to assess the success of the treatment and make adjustments if necessary.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with panniculitis varies depending on the cause and severity of the disease. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the prognosis is generally good, especially if the cause can be identified and treated specifically.

Dogs with idiopathic panniculitis or those due to an underlying autoimmune disease may require long-term treatment. In some cases, the disease can become chronic and recurrent flare-ups require continuous medical care.

Prevention

The prevention of panniculitis can be difficult because the causes are diverse. Good general care and hygiene can help minimize the risk of infections and injuries. Regular veterinary examinations can help detect and treat underlying diseases early.

For dogs with known autoimmune diseases or a tendency to panniculitis, a special diet or adapted management may be required to support immune function and reduce inflammation.

It is also important to minimize potential hazards in the dog’s environment to avoid injuries that could trigger panniculitis. Monitoring the dog for signs of skin changes and early veterinary advice can be crucial to effectively manage the disease.

Outlook on current research

Research on panniculitis in dogs is a continuously evolving field that focuses on identifying the underlying causes, effective diagnostic methods, and innovative treatment options. Current studies are investigating the genetic factors that could lead to an increased susceptibility to panniculitis. Some research suggests that certain dog breeds may be genetically predisposed, suggesting that a genetic component needs to be considered.

Another important area of research is the role of the immune system in the development of panniculitis. Since the disease is often associated with autoimmune reactions, scientists are investigating the mechanisms by which the immune system attacks the subcutaneous fat. These findings could lead to more targeted immunotherapies that control inflammation more efficiently.

In terms of diagnostic methods, there are advances in imaging techniques such as ultrasound imaging, which can help to better locate and assess the inflammation in the subcutaneous fat. In addition, molecular diagnostic tests are being developed to identify specific biomarkers that are characteristic of panniculitis. These tests could enable earlier and more accurate diagnosis in the future.

In therapy development, intensive work is being carried out to improve the effectiveness and reduce the side effects of drugs. New drugs that specifically target inflammatory processes are being clinically tested. The exploration of natural remedies and dietary approaches is also underway to expand treatment options and improve the quality of life of affected dogs.

In summary, research on panniculitis in dogs aims to better understand the disease and develop new strategies to combat it more effectively. Advances in genetic research, immunology, and medical imaging are crucial in expanding knowledge of this complex disease.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is Panniculitis in Dogs? Panniculitis is an inflammation of the subcutaneous fat in dogs, which can lead to painful lumps or swelling under the skin. This inflammation can be caused by various factors such as infections, autoimmune diseases, or trauma.
What symptoms occur with panniculitis? The most common symptoms include painful skin lumps, redness, skin ulcers, and sometimes fever. The affected dog may also show lethargy and loss of appetite. In some cases, there may be a discharge of oil or blood from the affected areas.
How is panniculitis diagnosed? The diagnosis is usually made through a combination of clinical examination, skin biopsy, and histopathological analysis of the affected tissues. Blood tests and imaging procedures can also be used to rule out other conditions.
What treatment options are available for panniculitis? Treatment depends on the underlying cause. It may include the administration of antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, or immunosuppressants. Supportive care such as warm compresses and a balanced diet can also be helpful.
Is panniculitis curable in dogs? The curability of panniculitis depends on the cause. In some cases, the inflammation can be successfully treated and completely cured, while in others it can become chronic and require long-term treatment.
Can all dog breeds be affected by panniculitis? In principle, any dog breed can be affected by panniculitis, although some breeds may have a higher genetic predisposition. Further research is needed to better understand breed susceptibility.
Are there preventive measures against panniculitis? There is no specific prevention, but general care of the dog, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoidance of injuries, can reduce the risk. Protection against infections and avoidance of stress can also be helpful.
Can panniculitis be transmitted from dog to humans? No, panniculitis is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from dog to humans or from dog to dog. It is an inflammatory reaction that is specific to the affected dog.
How long does the treatment of panniculitis take? The duration of treatment varies depending on the severity of the disease and the dog’s response to therapy. Some dogs may show significant improvement within a few weeks, while others require longer-term treatment.
When should I see a veterinarian if I suspect panniculitis? If you notice unusual skin changes, lumps in the skin, or other symptoms in your dog, you should see a veterinarian as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help avoid complications and speed up the healing process.