Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Canine Perianal Fistulas: Clinical Presentation, Pathogenesis, and Management.
- Journal:
- The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice
- Year:
- 2019
- Authors:
- Cain, Christine L
- Affiliation:
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine · United States
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
Canine perianal fistulas are painful sores that form around a dog's anus, and they are most often seen in middle-aged German shepherds, possibly due to genetic factors. While these issues were once thought to be mainly caused by the dog's body shape and typically treated with surgery, it's now understood that the immune system plays a big role in this condition. Long-term treatment with medications that help regulate the immune system is now the standard approach. These fistulas can really affect a dog's comfort and overall quality of life, so getting a proper diagnosis and starting effective medical treatment is very important. The focus on medical management has improved outcomes for dogs suffering from this condition.
Abstract
Canine perianal fistulas are painful sinus tracts and ulcers that spontaneously develop in the skin around the anus. Middle-aged German shepherd dogs are most commonly affected and may have a genetic susceptibility. Although the disease was once believed related to conformational factors and primarily managed surgically, an immune-mediated pathogenesis is now recognized. Long-term medical management with immunomodulatory agents has become standard of care for canine perianal fistulas. Perianal fistulas can be debilitating and have a negative impact on quality of life of dogs and owners. Accurate diagnosis and aggressive medical therapy are key to successful management of canine perianal fistulas.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30213533/