What is vitamin A-responsive dermatosis?
This is a condition where there is scaling and crusting around the hair follicles. There is no nutritional deficiency in the diet; however the condition responds to dietary supplementation with large doses of vitamin A.
How is vitamin A-responsive dermatosis inherited?
unknown
What breeds are affected by vitamin A-responsive dermatosis?
The condition occurs in the American cocker spaniel and Labrador retriever.
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 vitamin A-responsive dermatosis mean to your dog & you?
There is dandruff, hair loss, and marked crusting. Your dog's health is otherwise unaffected.
How is vitamin A-responsive dermatosis diagnosed?
A skin biopsy is necessary to make the diagnosis. 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. The biopsy will show characteristic changes of this condition.
How is vitamin A-responsive dermatosis treated?
As the name implies, the condition is treated with large doses of vitamin A.
Although little is known about inheritance, it is recommended not to breed affected dogs.
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. 62. AAHA Press. Lakewood, Colorado.
Copyright © 1998 Canine Inherited Disorders Database. All rights reserved.
Revised: October 30, 2001.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.