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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Focal metatarsal fistulas in young German Shepherd dogs

By Kunkle, G A et al.·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·1993·Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, United States·View original on PubMed

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Original publication title: Focal metatarsal fistulas in five dogs.

Species:
dog
Skin & coatDogs

Plain-English summary

Five young adult German Shepherds developed unusual sores on their back feet, known as metatarsal fistulas. The exact cause of these sores wasn't clear, but treatment with corticosteroids helped improve some of the lesions. Fortunately, these dogs did not have any other skin problems, and while the condition lasted a long time, it was generally not serious. With the right care, the dogs were able to manage their symptoms effectively.

People also search for: dog foot sores treatment · German Shepherd skin problems · corticosteroids for dog skin issues

Abstract

Focal metatarsal fistulas were identified in 5 young adult German Shepherd Dogs or dogs of similar breeding. A specific cause was not identified when biopsy specimens for culture and histologic examination were evaluated. Corticosteroid treatment was beneficial for some lesions. The dogs did not have other dermatologic diseases, and the clinical course, although chronic, was generally benign.

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Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8454508/