Papulonodular dermatoses are skin diseases that are characterized by papules and nodules on the skin. These are bumps that are found on the surface of the skin, and which have a solid appearance without liquid or pus within (nonsupperative).
Papules are the result of tissue infiltration by inflammatory cells. While nodules, which are larger than papules, are the result of a massive infiltration of inflammatory or cancerous cells into the layers of the skin.
You will need to give a thorough history of your dog's health, onset of symptoms, and possible incidents that might have precipitated this condition, such as an excessive amount of time in the sun, new foods that might have cause allergic responses, recent infections with parasites, etc.
Standard tests will include a complete blood profile a chemical blood profile, a complete blood count, and a urinalysis. During the physical exam, your veterinarian will scrape your dog's skin gently with a scalpel in order to get samples of the hair and skin for testing. This will allow your veterinarian to check for parasites, bacteria and/or yeast infections, any of which may be causing the skin to react with the raised nodules and papules. Cultures of these samples will be sent to a laboratory to check for fungi, bacteria, and microscopic parasites. Skin samples will also be sent for analysis on a microscopic level.
Sporotrichosis is a fungal disease that affects the skin, respiratory system, bones and sometimes the brain.
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