This 4 month old Labrador Retriever puppy was presented to the Humane Animal Society Clinic with a history of sudden onset of a swelling in its throat region. The owners initially thought it would be some allergic reaction to some insect bite and gave him doses of antihistaminics and steroids. Its owners waited for over a week, but didn't show any change in condition. Additionally, lesions also developed around its mouth and eyes.
The diagnostic plan included a skin scraping examination to rule out possible mange. A cytologic examination of the affected lymph node was also performed.
This was diagnosed as a case of Juvenile Cellulitis, an uncommon autoimmune disease of pups. Currently this pup is on steroids and antibiotics.
Juvenile cellulitis also known as Puppy strangles or Juvenile Pyoderma is a relatively rare condition affecting puppies. The exact cause of this disease is not known , but response to therapy with steroids suggest it to be auto-immune in nature.
Symptoms of this disease starts as dermatitis of mostly the ear, face, region around the eyes with enlargement of lymph nodes, lameness, lethargy and depression. Papules and pustules may develop which may rupture and a secondary bacterial infection may set in making it worse. Puppies may be responsive and alert with no or less change in their food and water intake.
Since it is a rare condition, it might be occasionally misdiagnosed as staphylococcal pyoderma. Cytologic examination is required for a confirmatory diagnosis.
Treatment plan include use of steroids for supressing the immune system and antibiotics for controlling secondary bacterial infections. When the condition has been resolved, steroids have to be tapered off slowly. A sudden withdrawal of steroid medications may lead to serious consequences. The prognosis of this diseaese is usually favorable.
Pup in the picture after one week of treatment:
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