Rudayna Ghubash, DVM, DACVD

We asked veterinary dermatologist Dr. Rudayna Ghubash how to match the right treatment to the right patient.

Why is skin cytology performed and how do we do it.

How to begin to distinguish between allergic dogs and other sources of rashes and itching.

Use this information to successfully answer clients' questions about their pets' dermatology issues.

Tips on performing skin cytology, dermatophyte cultures, and more.

Diseases of the nasal planum and footpads in cats and dogs range from life threatening diseases to benign conditions that require long-term therapy to maintain control. It is of the utmost importance to properly diagnose the diseases that affect these locations, as the treatment and prognosis varies greatly depending on the disease entity.

Flea infestation and flea allergic dermatitis in both dogs and cats remains one of the most common reasons owners bring their pets to the veterinarian. In the past 20 years, the advent of new products has revolutionized our ability to control fleas and, specifically, keep flea allergic patients comfortable.

Malassezia pachydermatis is a commensal yeast organism that is a normal resident of the skin, mucosa, and ear canals. In dogs and cats, Malassezia pachydermatis colonizes the skin soon after birth, and is the primary yeast species associated with skin and ear disease.

Diagnosing and treating the pruritic cat can be difficult due to the variations in clinical presentation and the large number of possible underlying causes. In addition, many cats over- groom and lick in hiding, i.e. they exhibit their symptoms in secret.

Pruritus is the most common symptom of skin disease in the dog, and having a methodical approach to itchy dog cases is critical in ensuring successful management. A thorough history, observant physical examination, and appropriate diagnostic tests are the fundamentals that will lead to effective therapy.

Cali was acquired by the owners at 8 weeks of age and has lived in Los Angeles her entire life. Her owner is a large animal veterinarian, and is very compliant. There are no other pets in the household, although she does frequent a barn where she does have some contact with horses.

Demodex spp are mites that normally inhabit hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Each animal (including man) harbors its own species-specific mite species.

Skin cytology is defined as the microscopic evaluation of material collected from the skin. Skin cytology can provide extremely valuable information as to type and degree of infection present, evidence or suggestive features of parasites, a normal or abnormal immune response, or demonstrate the presence of immune mediated or neoplastic diseases.