Treating Seborrheic Disorders

Keratoseborrheic disorders (KSDs) are common dermatologic conditions in small animal practice. They involve changes in the surface lipid film, qualitative and/or quantitative abnormalities in sebum production and keratinization, and changes in the resident bacterial and fungal flora. Most seborrheic animals have secondary seborrhea, in which the primary underlying disease predisposes them to excessive scaling, crusting, or oiliness, often accompanied by superficial pyoderma, Malassezia infection, and alopecia. The most common underlying causes of secondary seborrhea are allergies and endocrinopathies. 

Seborrhea has been generally classified into 3 groups: seborrhea sicca, seborrhea oleosa, and seborrheic dermatitis. Most seborrheic animals have varying degrees of all 3 of these classifications. With seborrhea, the keratinocyte turnover accelerates from 22 days to 3 to 5 days. Scale formation occurs due to cornification disorders caused by changes in keratinization, desquamation, and/or transepidermal water loss.

The goal of therapy is to identify and treat any underlying cause of the KSD. Topical therapies do not compromise the diagnostic evaluation and should be started concomitantly to provide as much immediate relief as possible. Topical treatment with the appropriate products will help to decrease the number of bacteria and yeast on the skin surface, the amount of scale and sebum present, and the level of pruritus, as well as help to normalize the keratinocyte turnover rate. 

When using the DOUXO® Seborrhea product line, it is recommended that the pet is initially bathed in the hospital with the shampoo and then discharged with Seborrhea Micro-emulsion spray, Seborrhea Spot-on, or a combination of these items for the client to use at home, in an environment where the pet is less likely to be stressed. The Seborrhea Spot-on is best used on localized areas of seborrhea such as facial skin folds, while the Seborrhea Micro-emulsion spray can be used on larger areas of seborrhea. The DOUXO® Seborrhea product line can be used on dry, oily, or mixed seborrhea. Using DOUXO® with its variety of easier application methods will help clients to comply more fully with your treatment regimen.

Ceva Animal Health, LLC, makers of the DOUXO® product line, has developed standard protocols that you can easily recommend to clients based on their pet’s condition and situational factors. Please ask your Ceva Sales Representative or Distributor Sales Representative for more information on these products and protocols.

DOUXO® is a registered trademark of Ceva Santé Animale S.A.