A clinico-pathological observation in dogs associated with zinc-deficient dermatosis

개에 발생한 아연부족성 피부병의 임상병리학적 관찰

Canine dermatosis associated with zinc deficiency naturally occurred in three districts of Kyungpook. A diagnosis was made by clinical findings, clinico-pathological examinations, skin biopsy, and therapeutic tests. The result was diagnosed as a zinc-deficient dermatosis. The disease occurred in rapidly growing Tosa-dog hybrids 5 to 7 months old. Skin lesions included erytherma, alopecia, crusting, scaling around the mouth, eyes, legs and tail. Clinico-pathological findings were decreased serum zinc levels, slightly increased white blood cells, and secondary Staphylococcus intermedius infection of the crusts. The skin biopsies for histopathological examination revealed marked parakeratotic hyperkeratosis. The patients with skin lesions were successfully treated by zinc methonine(Zinpro) medication In conclusion, serum zinc level and skin biopsy are very helpful in diagnosis of canine zinc-deficient dermatosis.