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Australian Shepherd Health & Genetics Institute

Australian Shepherd Health & Genetics Institute

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Sterile Pyogranuloma

 

What is sterile pyogranuloma?
Sterile granuloma, sometimes called sterile pyogranuloma or either name preceded by “idiopathic”, is an immune-mediated disease that cause masses or nodular skin lesions, usually on the face though they can occur anywhere.

How do I know if my dog has sterile pyogranuloma?

Sterile granuloma is frequently mistaken for other skin conditions, including infections, foreign body reactions, and cancer.  Diagnosis requires biopsy, culture, and sometimes blood tests.  Tests may be done to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms.

What does having sterile pyogranuloma mean for my dog?

These lesions do not itch or cause pain.  Prognosis is good but the disease requires life-long treatment with steroids or other drugs

How common is sterile pyogranuloma in Aussies?

It is rare.  However, it is important to keep in mind that breeders should approach all chronic autoimmune disease as a single health concern; different types of autoimmune disease frequently occur in affected families.

Is sterile pyogranuloma inherited?

Yes.  All autoimmune diseases are genetically predisposed:  The dog must have the genes to get the disease, but not every dog with the genes will become ill.

Is there a screening or DNA test sterile pyogranuloma/granuloma syndrome?

Not at this time.

What does sterile pyogranuloma/granuloma syndrome mean for my breeding program?

Breeders should approach each autoimmune disease as part of an overall health and breeding issue because different autoimmune diseases frequently occur in an affected family.  See Autoimmune Disease & Breeding.