ABSTRACT
Superficial pyoderma describes cutaneous bacterial infection that is confined to the surface, stratum corneum or superficial epidermis of the skin and hair follicles. Surface and superficial pyodermas are associated with pruritus, erythema, papules, pustules, epidermal collarettes and multi-focal alopecia. Impetigo occurs in young animals, particularly if they are poorly cared for. Pyotraumatic dermatitis is an acute superficial, exudative, highly pruritic and possibly painful bacterial infection caused by repeated self-trauma. Mucocutaneous pyoderma is characterised by erythema, exudation, ulceration and crusting of the lips and other mucocutaneous junctions. Topical treatments should be employed whenever possible to reduce or avoid use of antibiotics. Immunostimulants such as staphage lysate are useful for the treatment and prevention of recurrent pyoderma. Canine acne is a papular and/or pustular dermatosis associated with folliculitis and furunculosis. Feline acne is a multi-factorial skin disease characterised by comedone formation on the chin and lips. Although pathognomonic, the clinical signs may also reflect demodicosis or dermatophytosis.
