related terms: urate urolithiasis
What is Dalmatian bronzing syndrome?
Affected dogs have a patchy haircoat and their skin has a bronze hue. There is inflammation of the hair follicles. This appears to be related to the excessive uric acid excretion that occurs in the Dalmatian, and the associated tendency to develop urinary stones (urate urolithiasis). However not all Dalmatians are affected with bronzing syndrome even though all have excessive uric acid excretion.
How is Dalmatian bronzing syndrome inherited?
unknown. Urate urolithiasis is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait.
What breeds are affected by Dalmatian bronzing syndrome?
Dalmatian
For many breeds and many disorders, the studies to determine the mode of inheritance or the frequency in the breed have not been carried out, or are inconclusive. We have listed breeds for which there is a consensus among those investigating in this field and among veterinary practitioners, that the condition is significant in this breed.
What does Dalmatian bronzing syndrome mean to your dog & you?
As mentioned, affected dogs have a patchy hair coat and a bronze hue to the skin. Hair follicles are inflamed and readily become infected.
How is Dalmatian bronzing syndrome diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and the results of a skin biopsy. This is a simple procedure done with local anesthetic, in which your veterinarian removes a small sample of your dog's skin for examination by a veterinary pathologist. Your veterinarian will also measure your dog's blood uric acid levels.
For the veterinarian: The elevation of blood uric acid levels may not correlate with the bacterial folliculitis.
How is Dalmatian bronzing syndrome treated?
The periodic skin infections in these dogs are treated with antibiotics and antiseptic shampoos. Your veterinarian may also suggest dietary modification and medication to reduce uric acid levels.
For the veterinarian: The therapeutic value of reducing purines (through dietary modification and allopurinol) as a treatment for this skin condition has not been fully explored.
Affected dogs should not be used for breeding.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS DISORDER, PLEASE SEE YOUR VETERINARIAN.
Ackerman, L. 1999. The Genetic Connection. A Guide to Health Problems in Purebred Dogs. p. 49-50.AAHA Press. Lakewood, Colorado.
Ling, G.V., Sorenson, J.L. 1995. CVT update: Management and prevention of urate urolithiasis. In J.D. Bonagura and R.W. Kirk (eds.) Kirk's Current Veterinary Therapy XII Small Animal Practice. p985-989. W.B. Saunders Co., Troronto.
Copyright © 1998 Canine Inherited Disorders Database. All rights reserved.
Revised: November 17, 2003.This database is funded jointly by the Sir James Dunn Animal Welfare Centre at the Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.