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Discussion on Possible Case of Linear Keratosis
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New Member:
dalespny
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Posted on Wednesday, Jun 3, 2009 - 2:30 am:
Dr. Oglesby,
I rescued a 5 year old TB/QH pony mare (breeding unknown) two years ago. At that time the mare had small circular patches of hair loss on the right side of her neck. She had other more significant medical issues as well so I just kept my eye on the circular patches and focused on other things. The mare wasn't itchy and the skin seemed healthy - not at all thickened or scabby.
Over the winter I thought the patches were clearing up but in reality it was just longer hair growing over the patches. About one year after I initially adopted the mare it was evident that the patches were actually increasing in size and number though the mare seemed otherwise unaffected and pasture mates did not show signs of any skin problems. I discussed the problem with my vet and she recommended we do a biopsy. Below is the microscopic description of the sample:
Multiple histologically similar sections of skin examined. The epidermis is intact and is normally differentiated. The epidermis is heavily pigmented. Hair follicles and associated glands are intact and unremarkable. Minimal numbers of lymphocytes and occasional histiocytes irregularly infiltrate the dermis and in some areas partially surrounded sweat glands. Etiological agents are not evident. The histological basis for the apparent clinical hair loss is not evident.
My vet did some research and offered me a tentative diagnosis of equine linear keratosis. She said it is not treatable but will not cause problems for the mare other than being unsightly. I think my vet is probably correct, but I have
attempted to uploaded a picture for your review in the hopes that you might have some comments for me.
If you do agree that it is likely linear keratosis is the mare still a possibility for breeding? Other than these blemishes she has much to recommend her as a brood mare prospect. I would stay away from TB and QH sires as I was told these breeds are more prone to the "condition". What can you tell me about the genetics of linear keratosis?
Kelly Davidson
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New Member:
dalespny
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Posted on Wednesday, Jun 3, 2009 - 2:36 am:
Dr. O,
Another attempt to upload photo of my mare for possible linear keratosis. - Kelly
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Moderator:
DrO
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Posted on Wednesday, Jun 3, 2009 - 9:57 am:
Welcome Kelly,
It is not what I would call "linear keratosis" due to the lack of description of a hyperkeratotic state. Instead I would term this "linear alopecia". But whichever you call it in either case the cause largely unknown and while considered inheritable the specifics are not known at this time.
Both your images and histopath are consistent with the disease early on and it should be considered untreatable however some have reported slowing down the rate of progress with topical steroids. The mild WBC infiltrate supports this idea, though the pathologist did not see a relation between this and the hair loss. You and your veterinarian could consider treating daily for a week with inexpensive over the counter steroid cremes then skipping a week or two, then repeat in an attempt to slow it down. Watch for thinning of the skin an indication you may need more time off. Also topical protection from the warm months sun is logical though I have no work suggesting it would help.
DrO
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New Member:
dalespny
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Posted on Wednesday, Jun 3, 2009 - 10:50 pm:
Dr. Oglesby,
Thanks for the quick reply to my inquiry. I will try the topical steroids and see what happens and report back. Regarding your last sentence, are you also suggesting sunscreen or something else?
I am still stymied on the "to breed or not to breed" question. Do you know of any authorities on this skin condition that I might consult with?
Thanks again for your input.
Kelly
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Moderator:
DrO
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Posted on Thursday, Jun 4, 2009 - 7:31 am:
Sunscreen, fly sheet, stabling while it is sunny, and etc...anything that decreases sun exposure to the effected skin. I would contact your local veterinary schools dermatologist to start.
DrO
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