P-9 CD8 and CD4 lymphocyte populations in blood from healthy dogs and dogs naturally infected with Ehrlichia canis

The purpose of this study was to determine whether doxycycline (Ronaxan) decreased the severity of localized lesions of canine acne. Dogs were enrolled if they exhibited skin lesions localized to the chin compatible with canine acne, and if cytological smears showed a bacterial invasion and bacteriological samples grew Staphylococcus intermedius colonies. Demodicosis and dermatophytosis were excluded by skin scrapings and fungal culture, respectively. Lesions (erythema, lichenification, papules, pustules and excoriations) were graded with a quantitative 4-point scale (maximal total score 15). Extent of lesion was also estimated. Pruritus was graded on a 4-point scale. Scores were given at the time of inclusion and at day 30 after treatment with doxycycline 10 mg/kg once daily. Twelve dogs (10 males and two females) representing seven breeds were included. Good improvement of both lesional (9.4 before treatment and 2.3 after treatment) and extent scores (43% before treatment and 8% after treatment) was achieved. Pruritus was also markedly improved from 2.08 before treatment to 0.42 after treatment. One dog was not significantly improved after 1 month. Results of this trial suggest that doxycyline is useful for reducing the severity of localized skin lesions of canine acne.
Funding: Self-funded.