Sebaceous Adenitis

Sebaceous Adenitis (SA) by Leanne Gosset

Sebceous Adentis (SA) is a cosmetic skin disorder. Currently the causative factors for this condition is unknown. The sebaceous glands are located within the dogs skin, they both lubricate and protect the skin. Within this condition the body's sebaceous glands become inflamed and are eventually destroyed. When the sebaceous glands are no longer functioning the dog will exhibit a variety of symptoms. These symptoms include : loss of hair, thickening of the skin, scaley skin, secondary skin infections, and frequently a musty odor.
Sebaceous Adenitis is not a common skin disorder, it does however occur more often is certain breeds of dogs. Most commonly Sebaceous Adenitis is found in Standard Poodles and Akitas. SA has been diagnosed in Vizslas, Weimaraners, Old English Sheepdogs, Dalmatains, German Shepherds, Miniature Pinschers, Collies, Golden Retrievers, as well as mixed breeds.
SA diagnosis is a relatively simple process, a skin punch biopsy is removed under local anesthetic. The removal site only requires one or two stitches for closure. The biopsied skin sample is then sent to a dermatopathologist for analysis.
SA can also occur in a subclinical form, that is the dog appears to be normal, however the inflammation of the sebaceous glands is so subtle as to only be detectable by biopsy analysis. Within Standard Poodles SA has been determined to be inherited. Clinically diagnosed dogs with SA in either form should never be used for breeding. As a recessive characteristic both the sire and dam of SA diagnosed dogs are identified as carriers.
Presently there is no effective treatment for SA. Frequents baths (every 10-14 days) using a good hypoallergenic shampoo is recommended. Some dogs have been reported as responding well to baby oil soaks following the baths. The baby oil soak helps to loosen the scales and will temporarily restore moisture to the skin. The oil should be left on the coat for 20-30 minutes. Removing the oil will necessitate several thorough shampoos. Some dogs regrow hair, however frequent relapses, with the hair falling out will occur. The owner now faces starting the process all over.
In spite of the fact that SA is considered a cosmetic disorder, many SA affected dogs are euthanized.

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