Alopecia X

The Alopecia X is a disease in domestic dogs , by a progressive hair loss ( alopecia is characterized) at the neck and torso. The cause and exact pathogenesis are unknown. It is assumed that there is no transition from the resting ( telogen ) to the growth phase ( anagen ) of the hair . This mainly affects breeds with a very dense fur like Chow , Samoyed , Toy Poodle or Pomeranian , cases are also for the Dachshund , Jack Russell Terrier and Retriever Golden described. The skin and the coat of the other skin regions appear dry and dull.

In particular, hypothyroidism , overactive adrenal gland , hyperestrogenism and post-clipping alopecia should be excluded .

Alopecia X responds to various therapies. The administration of testosterone , estrogens , growth hormone , mitotane or trilostane as well as castration or trauma to the skin (for example a biopsy ) often lead to a reappearance of the hair. Presumably they all lead to a renewed start of the hair cycle , which can break off the next time the coat changes.

literature

• Chiara Noli and F. Scarampella: Practical Dermatology in Dogs and Cats . 2nd Edition. Schlütersche, Hannover 2005, ISBN 3-87706-713-1 , p. 362-363 .
• Meike Horn: Post-clipping alopecia vs. Alopecia X - facts, diagnostics and therapeutic approaches. In: veterinärspiegel issue 4 2017, pp. 135–140.

This article is about a health issue. It is not used for self-diagnosis and does not replace a diagnosis by a doctor. Please note the information on health issues !