And he describes an indolent ulcer as a pustulant sore typically observed on one or both sides of a cats upper lip. If further corticosteroid treatment is needed, oral prednisolone, initially at a dosage of 1 mg/kg q12 h may be used, then tapered to the lowest effective dosage. Treatment for eosinophilic granuloma typically involves steroids or other immunosuppressive drugs to control the overactive cells. o [pig guinea] LSU AgCenter faculty member named state veterinarian of the year, Pet Poison Helpline unveils state-specific top 20 toxins list, Topical therapy and immunotherapy can save time and frustration with dermatology cases, Comparing treatments for restoring the skin barrier in atopic dogs, Exploring molecular allergology as the future of allergy testing and immunotherapy. There is no certain answer to this question as it depends on the underlying cause of the eosinophilic granuloma. However, he notes, eosinophilic granuloma is the only one of the three that actually presents with a granuloma (a superficial, spherical mass of immune system cells). Ulceration may lead to pain and lameness. These would include neoplasias (lymphoma, mast cell tumor, etc), proliferative, non-neoplastic conditions (plasma cell pododermatitis) and infections (herpes virus). 2. This case demonstrates how to present EGC in a new way that has not been previously documented. Allergies should be investigated by initiating strict flea control, allergy testing, and dietary elimination trials. SOURCES: Eosinophilic microvesicles and microabscesses may be seen in the epidermis. Three types of skin lesions in cats are known as eosinophilphilic granuloma complex (EGL). o [alopecia OR hair loss ], , DVM, DACVD, University of California, Davis. Feline eosinophilic plaques are usually seen on the ventral abdomen or medial thighs. The lesions are typically raised, linear, clearly defined, and yellowish-pink in color, but there are wide variations in their clinical appearance. Side effects of corticosteroids are usually not significant in cats, but prolonged use can cause side effects such as an increase in weight. Also, says Dr. Miller, the cats behavioral habits must be considered. In cats, EGC usually results from an allergic reaction, whether to food, fleas or environmental triggers. An antibiotic was used because of the severe clinical appearance and extensive necrosis of the tissue on display. Guagure E, Prlaud P. Efficacy of cyclosporin in the treatment of 12 cases of eosinophilic granuloma complex (Abstr). To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes, microscopic examination of tissues (cytology of a needle aspirate or preferably a biopsy) is required. Insect bites have the potential to cause an exaggerated immune response in cats. Exploring The Debate Around Missoula Animal Control: Is It A Kill Shelter Or Not? Rather than parasitic invasion, Dr. Miller points out, the causes of these lesions are most frequently allergic reactions to flea, mosquito, or mite bitesor the bites of anything else that injects saliva into an animals system. Other possible causes include systemic reactions to substances including antibiotics, heart medications, allergy-inducing foods, and a wide variety of airborne pollens. The lesions will usually disappear spontaneously in many cases. If they don't identify any evident cause, or if the cause seems uncontrollable, the vets opt for symptomatic treatment of the lesions. Another more recent study confirmed these results with a higher dosage range of 10-12.5 mg/kg. The duration and dose of steroids needed will vary between cats, but in some recurrent treatment or continuous therapy may be needed to control the disease. EGC consists of eosinophilic ulcers, eosinophilic plaque and eosinophilic granulomas. In some cases, vets may suggest recurrent treatment or continuous therapy to manage the condition. Female felines suffer from EGC more often than males. Additionally, consider feeding your cat a hypoallergenic diet if you think the lesions are related to a food allergy. Treatment may last for weeks or months because eosinophilic granulomas frequently recur and prolonged treatment will minimize the chance of recurrence. BSAVA Manual of Small Animal Dermatology, 112-115, 2003. Breed does not appear to play a role in cats. Jane Meggitt has been a writer for more than 20 years. Allergy-related EGC usually occurs in cats 2 years old and up. In most cases, this will involve a combination of steroids and antibiotics. Vet Rec 2003;152:564-566. Vet Med Small Anim Clin 74 (5), 665-667 PubMed. The term eosinophilic granuloma complex (EGC) refers to a group of inflammatory skin problems in cats. In some cases, results from FNA may not be entirely clear and a biopsy may be necessary. By using our site, you agree to our. Diagnosis will typically entail a review of the affected cats medical history, a thorough physical exam, and a search of the animals skin and hair coat for external parasites. It is a condition where the body produces too many white blood cells, which can cause organ damage and failure. There is an anecdotal report of 2 cats developing reversible leucopenia following ingesting (via grooming) imiquimod cream which was placed on their lesions. On the other hand, some lesions can exist for months on end, and if a cat doesnt pay attention to it, it can just disappear without consequence.. Progression to squamous cell carcinoma is extremely rare, although it can occur. Eosinophilic granuloma complexes have varying signs but seem to be caused most commonly by an allergic hypersensitivity. 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