Facial Fold Pyoderma

Before

After

This 6-year-old Shih Tzu was evaluated for inflammation of the face and recurrent ear infections of one year duration.  The owner frequently wipes her dog’s face with water after the dog has been outside.  Microscopic evaluation of the infected area revealed a staphylococcal pyoderma (bacterial infection).  The infection was easily cleared-up with oral antibiotics, medicated shampoos and topical antibiotics.  But, as with any infection, the underlying cause must also be identified and corrected in order to prevent recurrences.  Deep skin folds that are constantly moist from tears or urine are especially prone to overgrowth of bacteria and/or yeast.  In this dog, cleaning the face with medicated wipes instead of water and feeding a hypoallergenic diet have prevented both the ear infection and the facial fold infection from recurring.