Lupus in Dogs: Understanding Causes and Symptoms

Lupus in dogs is an autoimmune disease with serious consequences. In dogs with lupus, the immune system can attack healthy tissues at the cellular level. This immune system disorder, also seen in humans, can cause various symptoms that reduce the quality of life and threaten the life of dogs. The symptoms of the disease may vary depending on the type of lupus. In this article, you can find information about lupus in dogs, its symptoms, and types.

What is Lupus Disease? Understanding the Causes in Dogs Lupus, which can be briefly defined as "an immune system disease that can be difficult to diagnose and treat," has different subtypes. One of these types is called systemic lupus erythematosus, and the other is called discoid lupus erythematosus. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Dogs Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in dogs is a type of lupus that can affect different parts of the body and lead to symptoms of different diseases. All tissues in the body contain substances called antigens that stimulate immune system reactions. When the immune system reacts to antigens, antibody proteins are produced that trigger an immune system response. In this type of lupus, dogs' bodies also produce antibodies against antigens.

Lupus, which can be briefly defined as "an immune system disease that can be difficult to diagnose and treat," has different subtypes. One of these types is called systemic lupus erythematosus, and the other is called discoid lupus erythematosus.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Dogs

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in dogs is a type of lupus that can affect different parts of the body and lead to symptoms of different diseases. All tissues in the body contain substances called antigens that stimulate immune system reactions. When the immune system reacts to antigens, antibody proteins are produced that trigger an immune system response. In this type of lupus, dogs' bodies also produce antibodies against antigens.

Diagnosing SLE in dogs is quite difficult due to the variety of its symptoms. Its distinguishing feature is its ability to affect the internal tissues and organ functions of dogs. In some dogs, the immune system attacks organs due to SLE, while in others it may affect the glands. The incidence of systemic lupus erythematosus in dogs is higher in some breeds than others. This immune system disorder, which has a higher risk in medium and large breed dogs, should be considered for breeds such as German Shepherd, Beagle, Irish Setter, and Poodle. The exact cause of the disease in dogs has not been determined. It is thought that genetic, psychological, and environmental factors play a role in the development of the disease.

Discoid Lupus Erythematosus in Dogs

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), also known as cutaneous lupus erythematosus, can be defined as an immune system disorder affecting the skin. There are different subtypes of DLE, and the areas of skin attacked by the immune system may vary depending on the type affecting the dog. For example, some dogs may affect the gums, while others may affect the mucous membranes. DLE commonly causes crusting of the skin, and the area around the nose is considered the most common area where symptoms appear. In the presence of DLE, changes in skin pigmentation may occur because the dog's immune system can attack the cell layers in the skin. DLE is more common in dogs living in hot climates, and exposure to UV rays can worsen the condition. The exact causes of DLE in dogs have not been fully determined. It is known that symptoms worsen with exposure to UV rays and that inflammation can be triggered.

Attention to Lupus Symptoms in Dogs

Lupus symptoms in dogs can vary depending on the type of immune system disorder.

Symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus in dogs include restlessness, decreased appetite, impaired limb function, lameness, swollen lymph nodes, skin pigmentation changes, hair loss, fever, sores where the skin meets the mucous membrane (such as the lips), enlargement of the liver and spleen, muscle pain, nervous system problems, etc.

Symptoms of discoid lupus erythematosus in dogs are mostly characterized by skin problems. In the presence of DLE, symptoms such as lesions around the nose, softening around the nostrils, dilation of blood vessels around the nose, lesions around the eyes, and sores in the genital area and ears may occur.

Lupus Diagnosis: Diagnosis and Treatment Methods

Lupus in dogs is among the difficult-to-diagnose immune system disorders. Blood tests are necessary for diagnosing systemic lupus erythematosus. Anti-nuclear antibody tests can yield successful results in diagnosing SLE in dogs. Treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus in dogs can vary depending on which tissues and cells in the body the immune system targets. If the skeletal system is affected, the joints may become inflamed, in which case rest will be critically important. If the skin becomes sensitive to UV rays, sun protection is essential to prevent the lesions from being triggered. If the kidneys are affected, the dogs' diets will need to be changed. This type of lupus in dogs is progressive and its outcomes can be unpredictable. Therefore, long-term treatment will be necessary to reduce the immune system's response in dogs. It is important to know that suppression of the immune system also has its own risks.

During the diagnosis of discoid lupus erythematosus in dogs, a skin biopsy is necessary. This diagnostic method, which involves taking samples from skin lesions and examining them in a laboratory, allows for the planning of DLE treatment in dogs. Since DLH in dogs is often accompanied by a secondary bacterial infection, dogs may need to be given antibiotics before the biopsy to avoid affecting the biopsy results. Treatment of this type of lupus in dogs requires the use of various methods. Since each dog will respond to treatments differently, determining the best medications for each dog may take time. Topical creams work for some dogs, but care should be taken to prevent the dogs from licking these creams. Some dogs may require systemic medications. The anti-inflammatory effects of both antibiotics and vitamins may be considered. Combinations of topical and systemic medications generally yield good results. Dogs should be protected from UV rays during and after treatment.