Specific Tests for Skin Disease in the Dog and Cat

Physical Examination

The next thing your veterinarian will do is perform a thorough physical examination. Your pet will be examined from head to toe, looking for evidence of parasites (such as fleas, ticks, and lice), skin lesions (such as red spots, scabs, sores) and overall health.

The examination will include the eyes, ears, teeth and other body parts as well. This is because skin disease can sometimes be a manifestation of disease in another part of the body.

The results from the history (survey questions) and physical examination will lead your veterinarian in determining which diseases are most likely causing the hair loss and itching for your dog and cat. The results will also help in determining which diagnostic tests should be performed.

If your dog or cat is suffering from skin disease and has been losing hair or scratching, there are several tests your veterinarian may recommend performing. This includes:

· skin scrapings to look for evidence of the mites that cause mange

· skin cytology looking for evidence of yeast and bacterial infections in the skin

· fungal cultures that check for ringworm and other fungal infections

· skin biopsies if skin cancer or other serious skin disease is suspected

In some cases, if your veterinarian suspects that a more systemic disease is causing your dog or cat's skin disease, a blood screen may be recommended.

· A blood screen usually consists of a complete blood count (CBC) and a chemistry profile.

· The complete blood count looks closely at the red blood cells and white blood cells.

· The blood chemistry profile allows evaluation of kidney function, liver enzymes, protein levels, and electrolyte levels.

· In dogs with skin disease, blood screening may also include tests that evaluate the thyroid function, including total t4, free t4, and/or thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).