Mendelian trait/disorder: unknown

Considered a defect: yes

Cross-species summary: previously called 'Pyoderma, German Shepherd'

Species-specific name: German Shepherd dog pyoderma

Inheritance: Wisselink et al. (1989) presented pedigree data and claimed autosomal recessive inheritance, but did not actually conduct a segregation analysis.

Rosser (2006): "Although dogs with GSP may have clinically similar presentations, the underlying causes of the disease process can be multifactorial in etiology. ... [P]urebred German Shepherd Dogs are predisposed to the development of this disease, but it is important to note that a similar condition may occur in German Shepherd crossbred dogs and other herding breeds of dogs ..."

Clinical features: Rosser (2006): "The most common lesion initially observed in cases of GSP is clinically similar to that of a “hot spot” and is usually first noticed in the lumbosacral region, lateral hip, or lateral thigh region ... . As the disease progresses, several additional lesions may be observed, including areas of posttraumatic alopecia, hyperpigmentation, papules, pustules, hemorrhagic bullae, ulcers, crusts, and draining tracts (usually with a hemopurulent discharge) with surrounding friable tissue. The disease ultimately takes on the appearance of chronic deep pyoderma or cellulitis, and there is frequently an associated regional lymphadenopathy. Less commonly observed clinical signs may include a purulent otitis externa, perianal fistulas, focal metatarsal fistulas (sterile pedal panniculitis), and fever with signs of systemic illness [Denerolle et al., 1998; Rosser 1997; Ihrke & DeManuelle, 1999]."

Breed: German Shepherd Dog.