Acral Lick Dermatitis: The role of genes and stress

A sore that develops on the legs because a dog obsessively licks itself is called acral lick dermatitis. Acral means periphery, implying the sore is on the legs closer to the wrists (carpus) and ankles (tarsus) than to the knees (stifle) or elbows. Dermatitis (derma=skin, itis =inflammation) implies an infection, and it occurs because the area is moist with saliva so that bacteria and yeast multiply. Usually the area is hairless with hairs initially chewed off and eventually unable to grow as hair follicles are damaged.

Underlying problems that contribute to acral lick dermatitis are hypothyroid disease, skin parasites, fungal skin infection, pinched nerves, lack of exercise and anxiety. Although each of these problems can be treated successfully, many dogs continue obsessively licking. This persistence suggests genetic factors play a role in this obsession.

In human medicine, genes contributing to some obsessive behaviors have been identified. For example, genes have been found that contribute to the development of Tourettes syndrome. A person with Tourettes repeatedly does the same thing—from blinking to swearing and shouting obscenities. Another human obsessive behavior for which genes have been identified by medical researchers at the Duke Center for Human Genetics is trichotillomania. Trichotillomania (tricho=hair, tillo=to pluck, mania=obsession) is a disease in which humans pluck at their hair until they have bald areas. Acral lick dermatitis may be genetically similar to this disease.

One of the factors that exacerbates obsessive disease is stress, and many dogs live stressful lives. For example, dogs left home alone often experience separation anxiety. Dogs that are not exercised also experience stress and physical frustration. Fortunately, there is help for these stressors, and your veterinarian will help you choose those that are best for your pet.

Tomorrow the blog will have a half dozen suggestions for the dog with acral lick dermatitis so that you can exercise your dog without wearing yourself out.

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