In veterinary medicine, a "hot spot" (or acute pyoderma, acute moist pyotraumatic dermatitis (AMPD)) is a raw, painful, irritated skin lesion that results in and worsens from a pet (such as a dog or a cat) constantly biting, scratching, chewing, and licking an area of its skin that is irritated or itchy. If it is covered by the dog's hair, the hair holds in the moisture and further irritates it.
Pyotraumatic dermatitis is an acute, rapidly developing surface bacterial skin infection that occurs as a result of self-inflicted trauma. These lesions are created when the animal licks, chews, scratches and rubs a focal area of skin in response to an itchy (pruritic), painful stimulus.
As the lesion grows, secondary infection from opportunistic bacteria can occur, causing more discomfort and leading the pet to scratch and chew even more.
Other names include wet eczema, moist eczema, summer sores, acute moist alderman, acute moist dermatitis, pyo traumatic dermatitis, or acute pyo traumatic dermatitis. As the nickname "summer sores" suggests, hot spots are more common in the summer; however, the ailment can occur at any time of the year. Many pets that develop them have allergies; they are particularly common in pets with flea allergies. However, any sort of irritation to the skin can result in a hot spot.
Treatment
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- The underlying cause should be identified
- Carefully clip the hair from the lesions back to the “normal†edges of the lesion. If lesions are large, sedation can be helpful.
- The lesion will be sore, so gentle cleansing with an anti bacterial/ anti fungal Shampoo is important.
- Applying a topical medicated spray to remove itch is essential to resolving hot spots.
- Avoid medications that will dry or sting. Stinging draws attention to the site and increases self-trauma from licking or rubbing. Alcohol-containing products should be avoided. reference: revival animal health
Locations
Most hot spots occur on the paws and skin.
See also
- Lick granuloma, a skin disorder in dogs that results from the dog's urge to lick the lower portion of its leg
- Staphylococcus intermedius, a bacterial opportunistic pathogen that is a common cause of hot spots
References
