Accurate diagnosis requires punch biopsy. A local anesthetic is injected into the site to be biopsied (usually near the withers or affected area). Once the area is numb, a tiny 6mm Bakerís Biopsy Punch is used to remove a tiny plug of skin, usually only one to two sutures are needed to close. The sample will then be gently placed (without squeezing) in formalin and sent for evaluation by a dermatopathologist. When the condition is generalized, it is not unusual to see changes on routine complete blood counts with many dogs having a marked elevation in white blood cells.

Systemic glucocorticoids (i.e. prednisone) are the most common immunosuppressive agent used to treat pemphigus. In dogs that have polyuria-polydipsia on prednisone, methylprednisolone (Medrol) can be used. Treatment usually includes an initial dosing of antibiotics for 2 - 3 weeks due to complications of secondary pyoderma being common and their use may be required intermittently during the treatment of pemphigus. This may in part be caused by the immunosupression effect of the systemic glucocorticoid treatment. Topical glucocorticoids are often beneficial in treatment of localized pemphigus lesions. Once remission is obtained, the oral prednisone (or others) is tapered to a dose effective in long term management.

Currently there is no cure for Pemphigus but with good care, most affected dogs can be kept comfortable and happy. They are still capable of giving and receiving love. How can we rid our breed of
this disease? Strive to breed away from this disease. Register affected dogs with the GDC (Institute for Genetic Disease Control in Animals), P.O. Box 222, Davis, CA 95617, Tel. 916-756-6773.