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Chronic Superficial Pyoderma

by ericahawker - May 10, 2009

I have a 9 yr old MN Wheaten Terrier with a history of chronic superficial pyodermas that present most often in the groin, thighs and occasionally on the dorsolumbar area. He gets epidermal collarettes, large crusts and papules. The skin resolves with Cepahalexin or Simplicef but returns every few mths. He used to have frequent ear infections also but he changed to Royal Canin Duck and Potato and the ears have been great for 2 yrs.

He also has mild hip dysplasia (seen on films) which has responded well to glucosamine and he now rarely limps. He has some aggression towards people--will bite occasionally when I examine his hind end or palpate his abdomen and has tried to bite owner if owner suddenly takes away food or does a sudden movement. He also has storm/fireworks anxiety and will tremble and cling to owner.

Tongue is red, moist with no coating. Pulse is deep and weak. He likes cool weather, lies on AC vents in sumner, pants in summer. Bowel movements are formed, firm and dark brown. He has 4-5 BMs per day, all before noon. Urinates 6 times per day, normal per owner. Doesn't drink much water.
Energy level--sleeps most of am, then more vocal and anxious in afternoon. Gets 2 long walks per day. Sleeps in crate but recently getting into owners bed and sleeping above the covers from 3 am until morning.

I have recommended he switch to a raw diet also.

I think he has a yin/blood deficiency with empty heat. Si Wu Xiao Feng Yin sounds best to me, but I was also considering Qing Ying Tang.

Thanks for the help-
Erica Hawker

by naturevet

May 11, 2009

Hi Erica,

I agree with your analysis here. The deeper pulse implies there is impaired circulation to the skin, predisposing to bacterial infection. The really strong 'Damp Heat' formulas would just pull the blood away from the skin further, whereas Si Wu Xiao Feng Yin and Qing Ying Tang would bring it closer. The only major finding suggesting a role of digestion (and therefore Damp Heat) is the previous response to diet. If Damp really is there, the above two formulas will help elucidate it, so watch for typical Damp signs after their use (more oiliness to the coat, etc.).

As for which one to use, it's toss up. I guess let's try the stronger of the two first and go with Qing Ying Tang, as you suggested.

Let us know what happens!

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