Biochemical and histopathological changes related to the topical application of ointment for canine pyoderma.

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Pyoderma is common in dogs, and its treatment requires a novel medication rather than antibiotic therapy. This study aimed to determine the biochemical and histopathological changes associated with the topical application of 20% and 40% ointments, compared with gentamicin 0.1% ointment, in dogs suffering from pyoderma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Serum and skin samples were collected from a negative control group before inducing pyoderma and from other subdivided groups on the 3, 7, 10, and 14 days post-inoculation for biochemical and histopathology examination.

RESULTS

Serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), urea, and creatinine concentrations were higher in the positive control dogs on the 3 day without treatment (DWT) compared with the negative control dogs (p<0.05). Compared with the healthy control dogs, serum zinc concentrations were lower in the positive control group on the 3, 7, and 10 DWT and in dogs treated with 20% and gentamicin 0.1% ointments on the 3 and 7 days post-treatment (p<0.05). Grossly, skin had erythema, pruritus, and pus-filled pustules of the untreated group. Microscopically, skin showed epidermal necrosis and edema, dermal collagen necrosis, and severe neutrophilic infiltration.

CONCLUSION

Compared with 20% and gentamicin 0.1% ointments, the topical application of 40% ointment-induced quicker skin healing and decreased the inflammatory changes caused by inoculation, based on biochemical and histopathological changes reflective of its curative efficiency. 40% ointment may be a suitable alternative to antibiotics for the treatment of staphylococcal pyoderma in dogs.