Canine Juvenile Cellulitis

Juvenile cellulitis most commonly occurs in puppies younger than four months of age as acute swelling of the facial skin, particularly the chin, eyelids, and lips. Within 24 hours, papules and pustules develop on the skin, followed later by crusting, fistula formation, alopecia, and cellulitis. The lesions soon become moist, purulent, and painful, and the submandibular lymph nodes become enlarged. The general condition of the puppy may also deteriorate, with lethargy, anorexia, and fever. Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Dachshunds are among the breeds most commonly affected. Eyelid lesions can cause qualitative or quantitative dry eye disease.

Treatment

Diagnosis is based on the clinical presentation and cytologic examination of affected skin. Treatment consists of prolonged administration of corticosteroids at immunosuppressive doses. Proper hygiene of the pathological skin lesions is important. Ocular therapy includes lacrimostimulants (tacrolimus or cyclosporine eye drops) and lubricants to prevent corneal ulceration and scar formation resulting from an inadequate tear film.

Juvenile cellulitis. Periocular swelling.

Juvenile cellulitis. Alopecia, erythema, and papules around the eyes and on the chin.

Juvenile cellulitis. Alopecia, erythema, papules, and moist exudate on the chin. Same dog as in the previous figure.

Juvenile cellulitis. Alopecia, erythema, papules, and crusts around the eyes and on the chin.

Juvenile cellulitis. Bilateral lesions of both eyelids in a young dog, with periocular swelling, redness, and hair loss.

Juvenile cellulitis, mild case. Focal periocular swelling and alopecia are present.

Adapted from the Atlas of Ocular Diseases in Dogs and Cats by Dr. Siniša D. Grozdanić and colleagues. © Animal Eye Consultants of Iowa. The text and clinical images on this page are original content from the authors' own clinical practice and research, and may not be reproduced, distributed, or repurposed without permission.

Think your pet may have canine juvenile cellulitis?

Early evaluation gives us the most treatment options and the best chance of preserving vision.