According to the UCDavis, "Book of Dogs"
"Sebaceous Adenitis (sebaceous gland inflammation) is an uncommon skin disease whose cause remains unknown, although both genetic and autoimmune origins have been proposed. Plugging of hair follicles and scaling probably occur as complications of reduced sebum flow resulting from sebaceous gland inflammation and destruction...."
"Young dogs are most often affected. The clinical signs, distribution and severity of the disease vary substantially among different breeds. Adherent scale is the most common clinical sign. Coat quality diminishes as the disease progresses, leaving behind dull, dry, brittle and broken hairs."
"In Standard Poodles, adherent scales on the muzzle may be the earliest visible sign. This scaly debris coats affected hairs. Lesions similar to those seen in Standard Poodles may be seen in Samoyeds. In Akitas the lesions are similar to those of Standard Poodles, but hair loss is more severe. Secondary bacterial infection of affected hair follicles is a prominent feature. Fever, malaise and weight loss occasionally may occur as well. A markedly different clinical presentation has been noted in Vizslas and occasionally other short-coated breeds. In these dogs, localized coalescing nodular lesions and plaques with hair loss and adherent scale are seen predominantly on the trunk."
"Diagnosis is made on the basis of the history, clinical features and skin biopsy. Treatment is almost purely symptomatic, involving the use of antiseborrheic shampoos. Experimental therapies are currently under investigation. Affected dogs should not be used for breeding."
(courtesy Mary Ann)
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