Disease Description: This is a rare condition in which there is marked thickening of the outer layer of the skin and of the footpads. Affected dogs have rough skin covered with thick greasy flakes or scales that stick to the skin and hair.

Inherit Mode: The mode of inheritance is likely autosomal recessive.

Disease Symptom: Affected dogs have abnormal skin at birth and thecondition worsenswith age. The skin is rough and covered with thick greasy scales, someof which tightlyadhere to the skin and hair, and some of which are shed in flakes. Thedog's generalhealth does not appear to be affected, but the skin changes arechronic and severe. West Highland white terriers may be born withblack skin that cracksand peels at 2 weeks of age. Because of the marked thickening of thefootpads, the whole paw mayappear enlarged and the feet may be painful.

Disease Cause: -

Disease Diagnose: In a young puppy, the changes are typical ofichthyosis. If thesechanges are seen in an older dog, other causes of seborrhea must also be considered. In either case, the diagnosis is confirmedthrough a skin biopsy.This is a simple procedure done with local anesthetic, in which yourveterinarian removesa small sample of your dog's skin for examination by a veterinarypathologist. The biopsywill show changes characteristic of this condition.

Treat Method: It is possible to manage the condition in affecteddogs, but itrequires great diligence on the part of owners. Your veterinarian willwork with you tofind what is most helpful for your dog. Treatment will includefrequent mildanti-seborrheic shampoos and moisturizing rinses. Due to the chronic, severe, incurable nature ofthe skin changes andthe intense treatment required, many owners choose to have dogs withichthyosiseuthanized.

Breeder Advice: Affected dogs, their parents (carriers) and theirsiblings (suspectcarriers) should not be used for breeding.

Disease Description Source: Link