Necrolytic Migratory Erythema (Hepatocutaneous Syndrome)
Description of the Disease and Clinical Picture
In hepatocutaneous syndrome, skin changes occur as a result of chronic liver disease or a glucagon-secreting pancreatic tumor. Older dogs are most commonly affected, and the condition has so far only been reported in one cat. Skin changes manifest as erythema, erosions, scales, and crusts, most commonly at pressure points (elbows, knees, chest), hind limbs, and around the lips and eyes. There is pronounced hyperkeratosis on all paws. In the later stages of the disease, symptoms such as polyuria, polydipsia, anorexia, and lethargy may appear.
 
Therapy
The diagnosis is established based on complete blood count and biochemical parameters, abdominal ultrasound, and histopathological findings of skin and internal organ biopsies. This condition has a poor prognosis, with an average survival time of up to 5 months after diagnosis. If the cause of the disease is a pancreatic tumor, surgical removal is the best option. Since skin changes are due to nutritional deficiencies, supplementation with zinc and essential fatty acids is recommended. Corticosteroids at anti-inflammatory doses can lead to improvement in skin lesions, but there is a risk of developing diabetes.
 
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