Elizabeth R. May, DVM, DACVD

Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine Iowa State University Ames, Iowa

Articles by Elizabeth R. May, DVM, DACVD

Much has changed in the management of bacterial skin diseases in veterinary patients since the recognition of methicillin resistant (?-lactam antibiotic resistant) staphylococcal skin infections and their significance in both the human and veterinary medical communities. Awareness and responsible use of antibiotic medications is a must when dealing with these emerging pathogens.

The first step in approaching the case of the "alopecic" cat is demystifying and differentiating the true motivation behind the activities of the over grooming cat from the truly intensely pruritic cat, which then drives the diagnostic tests for differentiating medical versus behavioral problems in the feline.

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There are many reasons to perform dermatologic diagnostics: to guide therapeutic choices, to make decisions regarding further diagnostic testing, to judge response to therapy as well as to actually make a diagnosis! Incorporating these tests into a busy practice schedule mandates that these tests be quick and easy to perform, useful information must be gained in an efficient manner and the results must be easily interpreted within the medical record.

The key to success when utilizing topical therapy involves an accurate assessment of the lesion or problem as well as an understanding of the basic principles of topical preparations. In addition, knowledge of the various formulations available as well as of the drugs and their limitations when applied topically, along with choosing an appropriate physical mode of therapy are all critical factors to consider when utilizing topical therapy.

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