The Skin Flint Podcast Podcast Por elearningvet arte de portada

The Skin Flint Podcast

The Skin Flint Podcast

De: elearningvet
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Whether you simply have a pet with skin issues, or are a vet / vet nurse looking to bolster your CPD record with free, easy to listen to, on the go discussion on and around pet skin disease - this is the podcast for you! Join European leading dermatologist Dr Sue Paterson, Dermatology Veterinary Nurse John Redbond and Elearning.Vet content provider Paul Heasman as they pick their way through the scabby surface of pet skin disease. Expect interviews with some of the smartest minds in animal dermatology to get beneath the surface of the latest thinking on all things fur and skin, keeping their gloved fingers on the pulse of current topics itching to be discussed. This podcast is brought to you by Nextmune UK (formerly Vetruus), specialist in veterinary dermatology and immunotherapy. Nextmune bring you products such as Otodine and CLX Wipes – market leading products in the management of skin and ear cases. In association with Elearning.Vet - providing the highest quality veterinary content free of charge.Copyright 2021 All rights reserved. Ciencia
Episodios
  • Episode 31 - Son of a Birch! The Pollen Predicament

    Episode 31 - Son of a Birch! The Pollen Predicament
    Jul 4 2025
    Show Notes On this month's episode, Sue, John and Paul invite Darragh O'Hanlon (@thetopicalvet) onto the pod to discuss pollen allergies. Chapter 1 – How Pollens Affect Animals (02:32) John introduces the topic of pollen allergies and welcomes guest Darragh O’Hanlon. Darragh shares how Sue’s lecture on otitis sparked his dermatology journey, and how John’s CPD also played a role. (04:09) John asks how pollens cause allergic reactions in animals. Darragh explains that pollens are airborne reproductive grains from grasses, trees, and weeds, and describes their microscopic structure and typical transmission routes. He shares the story of Mitzi the fox terrier, one of the first dogs documented with airborne pollen allergy. (06:30) Sue asks whether pollens affect more than just the skin. Darragh explains that: In dogs, pollens mostly trigger atopic dermatitis but can also affect eyes and ears.Cats may show respiratory and skin symptoms, including asthma and eosinophilic conditions.Horses show skin reactions like urticaria and, in some regions, respiratory issues like heaves. (08:45) John asks why grass pollens are so problematic over say garden flowers. Darragh notes a rising trend in grass pollen allergy and explains the volume and dispersal of wind-pollinated plants. Garden flowers are less allergenic due to heavier, insect-borne pollen; wind-pollinated plants like grasses and trees produce vast quantities of light airborne pollen. Sue discusses tree flowers and their pollen production. (11:30) Sue asks which trees cause the worst reactions. Darragh highlights birch as a major allergen in Northern Europe. He explains its cross-reactivity with other tree pollens and regional variations such as cypress (Mediterranean) and cedar (Japan). Conifers and pines, though present in air samples, are less allergenic due to their size and resin content. Chapter 2 – Seasons, Cross-Reactions, and Geography (14:20) Sue asks about pollen season overlap and the role of allergy testing. Darragh agrees and describes how pollen calendars can predict seasonal challenges. He outlines Ireland’s pollen calendar, from alder and hazel in winter through to weeds in autumn. (16:20) John asks if pollens cross-react with each other or be linked to food sensitivities. Darragh explains: Cross-reactivity is common among grasses and within trees and weeds.Birch is highly cross-reactive.Some food cross-reactions exist in humans (e.g. Mugwort-Birch-Celery Syndrome), but evidence in dogs is limited. (19:55) Sue mentions bee foraging and asks about using tape strips to detect pollens on animals. Darragh shares anecdotes and online interest in identifying pollens via tape stripping. (21:36) Sue asks about ragweed in Ireland. Darragh says it’s rare locally but problematic in the US. He discusses its introduction to Europe and control measures. (23:20) John asks how pet owners can reduce pollen exposure. Darragh shares advice: Allergen avoidance is difficult; pollens travel long distances.Regular washing, foot rinsing, and barrier-supporting shampoos help.Avoid walking dogs on freshly cut grass or on high pollen days. (26:10) John asks about environmental factors like altitude or proximity to the sea. Darragh explains: Pollen can travel thousands of kilometres.Grass pollen is more localised than tree pollen.Higher altitudes and coastal winds can reduce exposure. (29:12) Sue mentions a 2023 study on reactions to grass sap, not just pollen. Darragh reflects on cases that may fit contact dermatitis patterns seen with grass sap exposure. Chapter 3 – Testing, Treatment & Takeaways (31:14) Sue asks for practical advice on pollen avoidance and resources. Darragh recommends: Monitoring pollen forecasts (e.g. Met Office, Met Éireann).Using allergy maps from dermatology providers.Avoiding warm, dry, windy days; walking dogs after rain.Understanding how weather affects pollen counts, including the impact of thunderstorms and urban pollution. (35:15) John asks about immunotherapy and vaccine formulation. Darragh explains: Allergen-specific immunotherapy aims to desensitise.Earlier intervention is better.Cross-reactivity helps simplify formulations. (38:36) Sue stresses that vaccine components must reflect relevant, local allergens. Darragh notes the importance of seasonal coverage and discusses challenges with mixing mould and pollen extracts. (41:05) Sue shares an anecdote about a mismatched allergy vaccine and wraps up with thanks to Darragh. Useful Links: Nextmune – Veterinary allergy diagnostics and immunotherapy. https://nextmunelaboratories.co.uk/
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    49 m
  • Episode 30 - Understanding The New ISCAID Pyoderma Guidelines

    Episode 30 - Understanding The New ISCAID Pyoderma Guidelines
    May 28 2025
    This podcast is based upon the new 'Antimicrobial use guidelines for canine pyoderma by the International Society for Companion Animal Infectious Diseases (ISCAID)' available HERE (00:00) John introduces the podcast with his co-hosts Sue Paterson & Producer Paul. Chapter 1 – Understanding Pyoderma and the Need for New Guidelines (02:56) Sue welcomes Dr. Anette Loeffler, who introduces herself and her background in veterinary dermatology. Originally from Germany, she studied in Munich and has worked in the UK for over 30 years. She is currently a dermatologist at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) and has a special interest in Staphylococcus and bacterial skin infections and this has led her to work over the last 4 years on the new pyoderma treatment guidelines, aimed at improving antibiotic use and promoting topical therapy. (04:30) Sue asks Anette to explain antimicrobial stewardship and why it is important. Anette describes antimicrobial resistance as a major global threat. Overuse of antibiotics leads to resistance, so it is crucial to avoid unnecessary prescriptions and focus on appropriate diagnostics. (06:10) Sue asks how common pyoderma is in domestic species, particularly dogs and cats. Anette explains that staphylococcal pyoderma is very common in dogs due to their unique skin structure, making them more prone to bacterial overgrowth. While cats and other species can develop bacterial skin infections, it is far less frequent and usually not recurrent. Chapter 2 – Diagnosing and Classifying Pyoderma (08:00) John discusses evolving perspectives on pyoderma classification and asks if the traditional categories of superficial and deep pyoderma are still relevant. Anette confirms that the new guidelines still use these classifications as they help determine treatment: Surface pyoderma (dysbiosis): Often in skin folds where bacteria and yeast overgrow due to friction and moisture.Superficial pyoderma: Involves hair follicles and is the most common type.Deep pyoderma: A more serious infection requiring systemic antibiotics. (10:19) Sue notes that past treatment approaches lacked strong clinical evidence. Anette explains that many historical treatment protocols were based on anecdotal evidence rather than research. While deep pyoderma has more robust studies, superficial cases often lacked proper research, leading to overuse of antibiotics. (13:04) John asks how vets can determine whether a case is surface, superficial, or deep pyoderma. Anette explains that clinical examination alone can often differentiate them: Surface infections show redness and are in friction areas (e.g., nasal folds, hotspots).Superficial pyoderma presents with papules, pustules, and epidermal collarettes.Deep pyoderma causes swelling, draining tracts, haemorrhagic crusting, and pain. (16:04) Sue asks how to confirm true bacterial pyoderma and rule out mimicking conditions. Anette stresses the importance of cytology, a simple and cost-effective test that can quickly confirm bacterial involvement. Cytology can also differentiate between bacterial infections, yeast overgrowth, and sterile pustular diseases. Chapter 3 – Treatment Approaches and Key Takeaways from the New Guidelines (19:36) John asks about traditional treatment approaches and why they need updating. Anette outlines how older guidelines recommended unnecessarily long courses of antibiotics (e.g., 3-4 weeks for superficial pyoderma, 4-6 weeks for deep pyoderma). While this was logical before antimicrobial resistance became a concern, modern research supports shorter, targeted treatments. (26:13) Anette explains the new recommendations: Surface pyoderma should be treated topically only – systemic antibiotics are inappropriate.Superficial pyoderma should primarily be treated with topical therapy – which has been shown to be as successful as a course of antibiotics.Deep pyoderma requires systemic antibiotics but can benefit from adjunctive topical treatment. (32:40) Sue asks about helping vets communicate these new approaches to pet owners. Anette explains that the guidelines include tables, visual aids, and quick-reference guides to support busy practitioners. (33:28) John asks about when systemic antibiotics are still necessary. Anette explains that systemic therapy is still essential for deep pyoderma or when topical treatment alone is impractical (e.g., large dogs, owner limitations). In such cases, culture and susceptibility testing should guide antibiotic choice. (38:15) Sue asks which antibiotics should be the first choice if empirical treatment is necessary. Anette recommends clindamycin, lincomycin, cephalexin, or co-amoxiclav as first-line choices, with fluoroquinolones reserved for resistant infections. (42:32) Sue asks Anette for her top five takeaways from the guidelines: Read the dog, not just the textbook. Diagnose based on clinical lesions and determine if the infection is surface,...
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    52 m
  • Episode 29 - How Complex is Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex?

    Episode 29 - How Complex is Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex?
    May 16 2025
    Show Notes This month, the Skin Flint team welcome RCVS & European Specialist Debbie Gow to the platform to explore Eosinophilic granuloma complex (EGC). (00:00) John Sue and Paul introduce the podcast. Chapter 1 – What on Earth Is Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex? (02:55) Sue welcomes Debbie Gow to the podcast and invites her to introduce herself. Debbie shares that she is a specialist in veterinary dermatology, working at a busy referral hospital outside Edinburgh. She describes her role in setting up the dermatology service, working with a resident and derm nurse, and her continued involvement in CPD and writing. (04:05) Sue introduces the topic: eosinophilic granuloma complex (EGC) in cats. She jokes that it’s sometimes referred to as “eosinophilic granuloma confusion” due to its complexity and terminology. She asks Debbie to break it down explaining that EGC is an umbrella term for three lesion types: Linear granulomas: Seen on the backs of legs, chin, or in the mouth. May or may not be itchy.Plaques: Often pruritic, ulcerated, and secondarily infected. Found on the ventrum or medial thighs.Indolent ulcers: Located on the upper lip, may appear crater-like. (07:28) Sue asks about miliary dermatitis. Debbie considers it a separate reaction pattern, not part of EGC, though also common and allergy-associated. (08:15) John asks about age, breed, or sex predispositions. Debbie explains that while any cat can be affected, young adult cats (6 months to 5 years) are most likely to develop these lesions. Females may be slightly overrepresented, but evidence is limited. (09:27) John inquires about geographical prevalence. Debbie confirms EGC is seen globally wherever cats are present and exposed to allergy triggers. Chapter 2 – Lookalikes, Lip Lesions & Licking Cats: Sorting the EGC Puzzle (10:21) Sue asks whether EGC lesions are pathognomonic or if there are important differentials. Debbie stresses the importance of not assuming a diagnosis without investigation whilst they can have a classical appearance: Cytology is key to identifying eosinophils. Differentials include squamous cell carcinoma (particularly for lip ulcers), mycobacteria, fungal infections, and viral diseases. (12:37) Sue asks about a minimum diagnostic approach. Debbie advises: CytologyWood’s lamp and trichogram to rule out dermatophytosisConsideration of biopsies if in doubt (14:08) Sue asks how to perform cytology. Debbie describes: Tape prep for dry lesionsCotton bud for moist/crusted areasDirect impression with a slide (14:59) Sue asks how often infection is present. Debbie says: Infections are uncommon but more likely with plaques due to lickingCytology helps assess if antibiotics are neededMost cases are treated with anti-inflammatories rather than antibiotics (16:52) John asks about allergic patterns in cats. Debbie describes four main reaction patterns: Miliary dermatitisHead and neck pruritusVentral overgroomingEosinophilic lesions She notes cats may display multiple patterns and also non-skin signs like conjunctivitis, otitis, or sneezing. (19:02) John asks if specific allergies present with specific signs. Debbie says it’s inconsistent. While flea allergy is often associated with miliary dermatitis and food allergy with head/neck pruritus, patterns vary and aren’t reliable for diagnosis. Chapter 3 – Practical Approaches: From Kitchen Floor to Referral Door (21:23) John asks what owners might notice or try at home. Debbie recommends: Observing behaviourKeeping a diaryEnsuring flea controlConsidering recent diet or environmental changes (23:30) Sue asks about food trial myths. Debbie emphasises: Over-the-counter “hypoallergenic” foods are not suitable for true food trialsPrescription hydrolysed diets or novel proteins (e.g. ostrich, kangaroo, crocodile) are requiredFood trials should run for ~8 weeks She also recommends: Treat toppers to help encourage eatingShort-term feeding is usually nutritionally safeVeterinary nutritionist input for longer-term plans (28:43) Sue asks how to start a food trial if a cat is self-traumatising. Debbie uses concurrent systemic treatment (usually steroids) to control inflammation during the trial, tapering meds over 4–6 weeks if possible. (30:05) John asks for the first steps as a guide for primary care vets. Debbie recommends her first steps would be to rule out ectoparasites with full household flea control, possibly whilst beginning topical/systemic treatment as needed for comfort (32:10) Sue asks what to do when left with suspected environmental allergy. Debbie describes: Referral approach: Intradermal testing and immunotherapy if cost allows (40–75% success rate)Primary care approach: Use steroids at the lowest effective doseImportance of prioritising flea control and food trial first as they are often curative (36:50) Sue and Debbie have a healthy debate on the relative benefits of allergy testing when immunotherapy is not ...
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    46 m
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