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Skin Fold Pyoderma

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skin fold pyodermaWhat is skin fold pyoderma?

Intertrigo or skin fold pyoderma is one of the two major forms of surface pyoderma which is infection of the surface layers of the skin. The other major form is acute moist dermatitis.

Skin fold pyoderma is an inflammatory skin problem which occurs on opposed skin surfaces. The skin folds allow the surface of the two adjacent areas to lie in close contact and this creates a warm, humid environment that is not ventilated. The normal bacteria found on the skin then multiply, creating a surface infection in the fold.

Certain breeds appear to be predisposed to the condition. These include:

Spaniels with lip fold pyoderma, Pekingese, Pugs and Bulldogs with facial fold pyoderma affecting the wrinkles on the face and nose.

Shar Peis and also other breeds with loose skins that become obese where skin folds on the body can develop the condition. It can be found in the folds of the groin and the armpit (axilla) and also between pendulous mammary glands.

What are the signs?

These include moistness, exudation, redness and usually an odour. This occurs especially in Spaniels with lip fold problems.

dog with skin fold pyodermaTreatment

Mild cases respond well to medical treatment. The area has to be cleansed and sometimes the hair clipped. If the hair is clipped, care has to be taken that “stubble” is not produced causing more damage to the opposing skin surfaces. Antibiotics, frequently combined with steroids, are administered either topically in the form of ointment or by mouth or injection. If there is an initial response it is important that the area is cleansed and for this we supply appropriate disinfectant/antibacterial preparations. It is important a careful check is kept on the area for the first signs of any recurrence.

Chronic cases or cases that do not respond to medical treatment respond well to surgical removal of the skin folds. This frequently has to be carried out on affected Spaniels and flat faced breeds such as Pugs and Boxers.

Does the condition recur?

Recurrence is likely following medical treatment. Surgical removal of the fold obviously removes the cause and therefore the chances of recurrence.

© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Nov 18, 2016.