Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook.pdf - Mr. Walnuts

MYCETOMA
A mycetoma is a tumorlike mass caused by several species of fungi that enter
the body through wounds. This condition typically appears as a lump on the
feet or legs beneath the skin, with a tract to the surface that drains granular
material. The granules are white, yellow, or black, depending on the type of
fungus involved. The condition resembles a chronic abscess that resists healing,
despite prolonged treatment with antibiotics.
Treatment: Complete surgical removal is the treatment of choice. This is
not always possible. Some of the newer antifungal drugs (such as ketoconazole
and itraconazole) show promise in treating difficult cases. Treatment must be
continued for at least two months beyond apparent cure.
INTERDIGITAL CYSTS AND PODODERMATITIS
An interdigital cyst is an inflammatory reaction between the toes, and not a
true cyst. It appears as a swelling that may open and drain pus. The causes are
numerous, and include trauma, contact irritants, foreign bodies such as thorns
and plant awns, and the bites of ticks and other external parasites.
Treatment: Treatment may involve long-term antibiotics. Try to remove
any primary cause, such as a foreign body. Warm compresses may be helpful;
alternatively, soak the affected feet in a medicated solution of betadine or
nolvasan for 5 to 10 minutes. Further diagnostics may be needed to find the
underlying cause.
ACTINOMYCOSIS AND NOCARDIOSIS
THE SKIN AND COAT • 163
These bacterial skin infections, acquired by contact with infected soil, generally
occur in hunting dogs. Both types of bacteria can produce a systemic
infection that involves the lymph nodes, brain, chest cavity, lungs, and bones.
This interdigital cyst has
ruptured and formed a
draining tract.