Autoimmune diseases

Lupus erythematosus

Lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that affects the skin and sometimes other organs such as the joints, kidneys or blood. There are two main forms of lupus in dogs: discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE)

DLE is the more common and milder form of lupus in dogs. It mainly affects the skin on the nose, ears, lips and eyelids. Symptoms include:

• Redness, scaling and loss of pigmentation on the tip of the nose
• Crusting, ulcers or bleeding on the nose
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Hair loss or change in hair color in the affected areas

The exact cause of DLE is not known, but it is suspected that genetic factors, environmental influences and hormones play a role. Diagnosis is made through a skin biopsy, where a small sample of skin is examined under a microscope. Treatment consists of avoiding sunlight, applying sunscreen or ointments to the affected areas and administering anti-inflammatory medication such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

SLE is the rarer and more severe form of lupus in dogs. It affects not only the skin, but also other organs such as the joints, kidneys, blood or heart. The symptoms include:

• Lameness, swelling or pain in the joints
• Fever, loss of appetite or weight loss
• Anemia, bleeding tendency or enlarged lymph nodes
• Kidney failure, proteinuria or increased thirst
• Heart problems, shortness of breath or coughing

The cause of SLE is also not exactly known, but genetic factors, infections and environmental influences are thought to play a role. Diagnosis is made through a series of blood tests that check for antibodies against the body's own cells or tissues. Treatment consists of the administration of high doses of corticosteroids or immunosuppressants, which suppress the immune system and thus reduce inflammation. The prognosis depends on the severity and response to therapy.

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA)

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks and destroys the red blood cells. This leads to a lack of oxygen in the body and a number of symptoms such as

• Pallor of the mucous membranes
• Weakness, lethargy or collapse
• Rapid breathing or heartbeat
• Jaundice or dark urine
• Fever or enlarged spleen

The cause of AIHA is not always clear, but it can be triggered by infections, vaccinations, medication or other illnesses. Diagnosis is made by a blood test that measures the proportion of red blood cells, the hemoglobin content and the presence of antibodies on the surface of the red blood cells. Treatment consists of the administration of corticosteroids or immunosuppressants to prevent the destruction of red blood cells and, if necessary, a blood transfusion to compensate for the lack of oxygen.

Autoimmune thrombocytopenia (AITP)

Autoimmune thrombocytopenia is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks and destroys the blood platelets. Platelets are cells that are responsible for blood clotting. A lack of platelets leads to an increased tendency to bleed and symptoms such as

• Spontaneous bleeding from the nose, mouth or anus
• Bruising or petechiae on the skin
• Blood in the urine or stool
• Anemia or weakness

The cause of AITP is often unknown, but it can be triggered by infections, vaccinations, medications or other illnesses. Diagnosis is made by a blood test that measures the number of platelets and the presence of antibodies against them. Treatment consists of administering corticosteroids or immunosuppressants to prevent platelet destruction and, if necessary, a platelet transfusion to improve blood clotting.

How you can help your dog

If your dog is suffering from an autoimmune disease, it is important that you provide them with appropriate medical care and monitor their symptoms regularly. You should also make sure that he receives a balanced diet that supports his health and does not cause allergic reactions. You should also give him lots of love and attention to reduce his stress and promote his well-being.