Seborrhea

Causes of seborrhea

Seborrhea can have various causes, which can be divided into two categories: primary and secondary. Primary seborrhea is a genetic disorder that usually occurs in certain breeds such as Cocker Spaniels, West Highland White Terriers, Basset Hounds or Shar-Pei. These dogs have a congenital disorder of the sebaceous glands that leads to excessive or altered sebum production. Primary seborrhea cannot be cured, but can be controlled with appropriate care and medication.

Secondary seborrhea is a result of another skin condition or underlying health problem that affects the sebaceous glands. Possible causes include allergies, parasites, fungal or bacterial infections, hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies or immune system weakness. Secondary seborrhea can be cured by treating the underlying cause.

Symptoms of seborrhea

The symptoms of seborrhea can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. The most common signs are:

• Dry or greasy dandruff on the coat or skin
• Greasy or sticky coat
• Hair loss or thinning coat
• Itching or scratching
• Redness or inflammation of the skin
• Bad odor
• Secondary infections caused by bacteria or fungi

Symptoms may be limited to certain areas of the body, such as the back, tail, ears or groin, or may affect the whole body. They can also occur or worsen seasonally.

Diagnosis of seborrhea

If you notice signs of seborrhea in your dog, you should consult a vet to make the correct diagnosis. The vet will perform a thorough physical examination and take a skin sample to examine under a microscope. They will also look for other skin conditions or health problems that may be causing secondary seborrhea. This may require blood tests, urinalysis or other tests.

The diagnosis of primary seborrhea is usually based on the breed of the dog, the age of onset of symptoms and the exclusion of other possible causes. There is no specific test for primary seborrhea.

Treatment of seborrhea

The treatment of seborrhea depends on the type and cause of the condition. The aim is to relieve symptoms, regulate sebum production and prevent or treat secondary infections.

Treatment may include the following:

• Specialized shampoos or rinses with ingredients such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, sulfur or tar to help remove sebum and soothe the skin.
• Medications such as antibiotics, antifungals or steroids to treat infections or inflammation.
• Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids or vitamin A to improve skin health.
• Dietary or lifestyle changes to treat or prevent underlying health problems.

Treatment for primary seborrhea is usually required for life to keep the condition under control. Treatment of secondary seborrhea can be stopped once the underlying cause is resolved.

Prevention of seborrhea

Seborrhea cannot always be prevented, especially if it is a genetic condition. However, there are some measures you can take to reduce the risk or alleviate the symptoms:

• Bathe your dog regularly with a suitable shampoo recommended by your vet. Avoid bathing too frequently or too infrequently as this can dry out or irritate the skin.
• Brush your dog daily to remove dead hair and dandruff and promote blood circulation to the skin.
• Keep your dog away from allergens or irritants that can affect his skin, such as pollen, dust, flea products or perfume.
• Feed your dog a balanced, high-quality diet that contains all the necessary nutrients for healthy skin. Avoid foods that can trigger allergies or intolerances.
• Make sure your dog has regular veterinary examinations to identify and treat potential health problems at an early stage.