Exfoliative Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus

Body function:

Immune & Autoimmune

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Exfoliative cutaneous lupus erythematosus is a genetic form of lupus affecting German Shorthaired Pointer dogs. It is associated with a mutation in the DPF2 gene. The condition is inherited in the autosomal recessive fashion, meaning both parents must be carriers for a litter to be affected.

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List of affected breeds:

Genetic research has linked this gene and condition in the following breeds:

German Shorthaired Pointer

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What does this mean for a dog with this trait?

Because this is an autoimmune disease, treatment of exfoliative cutaneous lupus erythematosus requires immune suppression. Dogs may also benefit from topical steroids in tandem with medications. Medication should be given for life.

Symptoms

Signs of exfoliative cutaneous lupus erythematosus typically appear before 1 year of age. They include skin lesions, scaling, redness, ulcers, and other skin deformities. Dogs may also experience progressive joint pain. This condition is associated with low or no sperm count in males and irregular heat cycles in females.

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