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Acral lick dermatitis is a firm, raised, ulcerative, or thickened plaque usually located on the back side of the wrist, on the ankle, or between the toes. This disease primarily affects dogs, and most commonly large breeds, especially Doberman Pinschers, Labrador Retrievers, Great Danes, Irish and English Setters, Golden Retrievers, Akitas, Dalmatians, Shar-peis, and Weimaraners. The age at which it occurs in animals varies with the cause. Some experts suggest that it is more common in males; others indicate there is no preference.
The following are some symptoms that may be observed if your dog is suffering from acral lick dermatitis:
A veterinarian will first need to do a behavioral history on your dog. The following are a list of other possible examinations generally used to diagnose acral lick dermatitis:
It is important that the veterinarian rule out any underlying diseases prior to diagnosing neurologically caused (psychogenic) skin disorders.
The prediction of a disease’s outcome in advance
A condition in which the skin becomes inflamed