Lupus Disease in Dogs

Lupus or lupus erythematosus is a type of autoimmune disease, where the immune system of the body starts attacking the healthy cells and tissues, by mistaking them for the foreign harmful microorganisms. Lupus can affect humans, dogs as well as cats. However, it is more prevalent among dogs than cats. The disease can manifest into inflammation of any part of the body including heart, kidneys, lungs, joints and also blood. Let's have a look at some important lupus disease information. Read more on dog illnesses.

Types of Lupus Disease in Dogs
Lupus erythematosus in dogs can be of two types, namely systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE). SLE or systemic lupus can literally affect any part of the body, more commonly joints, skin, blood and the kidneys. On the other hand, discoid lupus erythematosus does not affect the whole body, instead it attacks only the skin, especially of the face and nose. In dogs, discoid lupus is found to be more prevalent than the systemic lupus erythematosus.

Causes of Lupus Disease in Dogs
The exact causes of lupus disease are still unknown. However, both genetical and environmental factors supposedly play an important role in the development of the disease. According to expert opinions, the disease can be hereditary and so, some dogs can be genetically predisposed to develop lupus, especially when exposed to certain environmental factors like sunlight, chemicals, etc. Dog breeds that have been observed to be more susceptible to lupus, especially to discoid lupus are German shepherds, collies, Siberian huskies and shelties. More on German shepherds and Siberian husky.

Symptoms of Lupus Disease in Dogs
The symptoms of lupus in dogs can be mild or severe, depending on the specific organ or organs that are affected. The symptoms have been observed to subside for a while and then again reappear, especially when the dogs are exposed to ultraviolet radiation of sun. Systemic lupus erythematosus can cause lameness, arthritis in dogs or joint inflammation, muscle inflammation, anemia, skin lesions and infections, inflammation of the heart muscles and hair loss in dogs. Sometimes, fever, pale gums and increased urination can also accompany the disease. As it affects the joints and muscles, the animal can become lethargic. As the disease affects the major organs of the body, it can lead to anemia, anorexia and enlargement of liver, spleen and lymph nodes, confusion and seizures.

On the other hand, discoid lupus affects only the skin, particularly of the face and nose. It can cause skin lesions and a change in the appearance of the skin of the nose, by causing depigmentation. Skin lesions or sores can also be observed on the nose. Gradually, the skin of the affected areas may start to flake. Even mouth ulcers can develop frequently. Sunlight or ultraviolet radiation is the most important triggering factor for discoid as well as systemic lupus erythematosus.

Diagnosis and Treatment for Lupus in Dogs
As lupus disease involves multiple organs, a number of clinical tests are required for its diagnosis. Such tests and examinations can include blood test, a complete blood count test, urinalysis, antinuclear antibody test, immunofluorescence test and skin biopsy. There is no cure for lupus, but the symptoms and complications can be prevented by appropriate treatment. Treatment for lupus in dogs would be greatly determined by factors like the organs affected by the disease, its severity and the general health and well being of the animal.

Systemic lupus erythematosus may require both steroids and non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to ease inflammation. Severe inflammation would require immunosuppressant medications, which can suppress the immune system to alleviate the symptoms of lupus. For discoid lupus, topical steroid ointments are used to treat skin problems. Vitamin E supplements are often recommended by the veterinarians to improve skin conditions and prevent the development of secondary infection, by boosting the immune system. Even topical creams with vitamin E can help to improve the condition of the affected skin.

With appropriate treatment, the symptoms of lupus in dogs can be controlled to a great extent and a dog with lupus can survive for several years. Early diagnosis and treatment can help a lot in preventing the complications associated with lupus disease in dogs. However, lupus is no doubt a major dog health problem, that requires constant supervision and a great deal of precaution and dog care. Dogs with lupus should be protected from the sunlight or ultraviolet radiation, which is the most main triggering factor for this disease.