Pododermatitis

Pedal eczema, interdigital cysts, interdigital dermatitis and pododermatitis are all terms used to describe a condition of varying severity which causes lameness and discomfort in dogs. Although often referred to as interdigital cysts, the condition is actually pyoderma, which is a bacterial infection of the skin between the toes.

What are the signs?

An affected dog will be lame often with swollen painful feet, sometimes with a purulent discharge. Hair may be permanently lost (alopecia) and pruritus (itching) is frequently a sign.

Is it more prevalent in some breeds?

Bulldogs, Bull Terriers, Boxers, Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, German Shepherd dogs, Retrievers and Pekingese all appear more susceptible than the general canine population but in fact the condition does occur commonly in crossbreds.

What is the cause?

Pododermatitis is the result of a chronic bacterial infection, usually Staphylococcus intermedius. Other bacteria are often isolated on laboratory examination.

Why does it occur?

• The infection can result from foreign body penetration (grass seeds), parasitic problems (mange or ringworm), contact with irritant chemicals or injury.
• Contact allergy, dietary hypersensitivity or atopy may cause pruritus of the feet resulting in continuous licking which in turn allows multiplication of the Staphylococcal organism.

How is it diagnosed?

Diagnosis depends on clinical examination and laboratory tests. 

Can the condition be treated?

Treatment involves:

• Broad spectrum antibiotics, selected following laboratory sensitivity tests are usually very effective but have to be given long term. 
• Washing and bathing the feet, sometimes soaking in special solutions. 
• The application of antimicrobial powders and creams may be necessary.

What is the prognosis?

Good if the condition has not had time to become established. Chronic pododermatitis, even after two or three months, antibiotic treatment and apparent cure can still recur, thus involving recurrent treatment.

We will be very happy to discuss the condition with you and have to emphasise that in breeds particularly affected where autoimmune factors may also play a part, prolonged and sometimes repeated treatment is often necessary.