Pictured below is a close up of a dog’s nose. This dog had a black nose until it suddenly started to blister and peel. Eventually, all of the normal tissue was gone, leaving the dog with an open wound over the entire nose. With treatment, the condition improved to what is pictured below. What medical condition does this dog
have?
Diagnosis: Discoid Lupus Erythematous (D.L.E.)
Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which the patient’s own immune system attacks free DNA. It most commonly affects the nose but I have also seen it on the ears and inside of the mouth. It is very common in collies which is why it has the nick name, ‘collie nose’. Although this dog’s nose will never be completely normal again, treatment with doxycycline and fatty acids keeps him comfortable.
Published by kristennelsondvm
Dr. Kristen Nelson grew up on a farm in Watertown, Minn., where she developed a deep love for animals of all kinds. She received a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine. Kris then completed a small-animal internship at the prestigious Animal Medical Center in New York City.
In addition to writing and speaking, she cares for small and exotic animals in Scottsdale, Az. Dr. Nelson is widely quoted in the media. Her credits include Ladies’ Home Journal, USA TODAY, the Los Angeles Times and numerous radio and television interviews. Dr. Nelson has written two books, Coated With Fur: A Vet’s Life and Coated With Fur: A Blind Cat’s Love. Kris and her husband Steve share their home with rescued cats, birds and a dog.
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