Fold dermatitis/pyoderma
Also known as: Intertrigo · Skin fold dermatitis · Hautfaltenentzündung · Hautfalten-Dermatitis · Fold pyoderma · …
Overview
What it is
Fold dermatitis, also known as intertrigo, is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs within deep skin folds. When skin rubs against skin, it traps moisture, heat, and debris, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast to overgrow. This leads to localized skin infections, particularly in breeds with pronounced facial, lip, or tail folds.
How it presents
Owners will typically notice redness, hair loss, a damp appearance, and a strong, unpleasant odor inside the skin folds, often accompanied by scratching or rubbing. These signs usually first appear during puppyhood or adolescence as the dog grows and its skin folds deepen.
Treatment
The condition is manageable, often requiring lifelong topical treatment with medicated cleansers, though surgical removal of the folds can offer a permanent cure. Depending on whether lifetime management or surgery is chosen, overall costs typically range from 500 to 4000 EUR.
How it's tested
Affected breeds
Why is this linked to extreme breeding?
This condition can be tied to a trait dogs are bred for. These pages explain how it arises, which breeds are affected and how to recognize dogs bred for health.
- Brachycephaly in Dogs: What a Flat Face Does to the BodyA short muzzle looks endearing – but when the skull shrinks and the soft tissue inside it doesn't, the dog is left with too little room to breathe.
- Screw Tail in Dogs: What the Corkscrew Tail Hides in the SpineThe short, twisted tail of bulldog breeds looks cute – but it is the visible end of a spinal malformation that often reaches into the back as well.
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
What is Fold dermatitis/pyoderma?
Fold dermatitis, also known as intertrigo, is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs within deep skin folds. When skin rubs against skin, it traps moisture, heat, and debris, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast to overgrow. This leads to localized skin infections, particularly in breeds with pronounced facial, lip, or tail folds.
How is Fold dermatitis/pyoderma tested?
Various clinical and genetic tests are used depending on the breed and presentation.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Bloodhound, Boston Terrier, English Springer Spaniel, Frenchton, Neapolitan Mastiff, Pekingese, Pug, Puggle.