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AFGHANS ARE US -HEALTH
Interdigital Cysts
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Interdigital Cysts are actually a cellulitic form of
deep tissue pyoderma (skin infection). Cellulitus is a condition in
which inflammatory fluids are forced into the tissues, rather than being
discharged on the surface. Interdigital cysts are characterized as a
firm, nodular thickening of the interdigital web. These cysts generally
exhibit active stages of deep draining tracts of large pustules in one
or more interdigital spaces.
Interdigital pyoderma tends to be chronic in nature, therefore a
thorough search for the underlying cause is essential. This search can
consist of skin scrapings, bacterial cultures and sensitivity tests.
Most often the causative factors are found to be infection with
staphylococci, ingrown hairs or blockage of a sebaceous gland. Though in
some cases a genetic predisposition is suspected, which will necessitate
intermittent lifelong antibiotics to control the symptoms. In some
cases, the cyst is removed under general anaesthesia followed up by
appropriate antibiotics.
In many cases, interdigital cysts can be alleviated, if only
temporarily, by home treatment. Home treatment should not be attempted
by novices, it is however a step available to those experienced in dogs
and the possible repercussions of interdigital cysts. The following is a
brief outline of one fairly successful home treatment course.
a. first thoroughly clean the area.
b. soak the paw in warm water with Epsom Salts. Some people find it
easiest to soak all 4 feet at the same time by standing the dog in a
bath tub.
c. Do not allow the dog to drink the water.
d. Soak for approximately 10 minutes.
e. Dry area thoroughly.
f. Apply Panalog ointment to the area.
g. Repeat daily until swelling has been gone for 3 days. |
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Provided by Hazel Cranham
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