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Ulcerative Nasal-Cutaneous Lesions

by minimo - March 10, 2010

I am in need of advice for a 10 yr old MN Husky Mix who has a 5 year history of terrible ulcerative, peeling and bleeding lesions that wax and wane but are getting progressively worse with time. They typically start at the nasal cutaneous junction and advance to peel the nose and skin of the muzzle, including under the chin. The lesions respond to antibiotics (last treated with ciprofloxacin) and steroids (immunosuppressive doses of prednisone) but are increasingly harder to control. The skin was biopsied and pemphigus was ruled out. The mucocutaneous area around the lips do not seem affected.

The tongue is a redder pink, no coating with minor cracks centrally. The gums are brick red in areas although the teeth look fine. The pulse is deep but doesn't have much tone. The dog likes the cold generally, but lately plunges its nose in the snow.

No other abnormalities although the dog is overweight.

The dog is currently off meds and stable but the owners are ready to try alternatives. They have already given arnica when the nose was really bad and felt that that did help a lot.

I feel like herbs are a better option than acupuncture, but I am open to suggestions.

Thanks greatly,
Dave

P.S. I am just finishing up the IVAS acupuncture course and wanted to thank you Steve for your fine contributions!

by naturevet

March 11, 2010

Hi Dave,

I'm glad you found the IVAS course rewarding. I hope you have a long enjoyable career in Chinese veterinary medicine.

Regarding the case, given the deep pulse, response to Arnica, and lesion severity, I'd try Qing Ying Tang first. It has a reputation for helping quite severe and ulcerative lesions; moves Blood as does Arnica; yet improves the circulation to the area to resolve the inflammatory process permanently.

I'd give it a try. There may be a sequence of treatments that is needed over time. We've also used Hoxsey and homeopathic Sulphur. But Qing Ying Tang seems a good place to start, and may resolve the problem entirely.

All the best,

Steve

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