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 33 - Bulldogs, Pugs and Plenty of Folds; A Deep Dive into Brachy Skin

    Episode 33 - Bulldogs, Pugs and Plenty of Folds; A Deep Dive into Brachy Skin
    Oct 21 2025
    Chapter 1 – Intertrigo: Prevention, Work-Up, and When (Not) to Use Antibiotics (00:11) John introduces the podcast episode and the hosts. (02:39) John welcomes Dr Laura Buckley (Senior Lecturer, Veterinary Dermatology, University of Liverpool) and asks what “brachycephalic” means and which breeds it covers. Laura explains shortened muzzles and broad, domed heads; the most extreme include French and British Bulldogs, Pugs and Boston Terriers, with Cavaliers, Chihuahuas and Dogue de Bordeaux also affected. (04:00) Sue notes their huge popularity in UK primary care. Laura adds that around 40% of her clinic can be French Bulldogs, with brachycephalics a very large overall share. (04:33) Sue asks which skin problems are most common. Laura explains that atopic dermatitis and otitis (externa/media) lead, with interdigital furunculosis also frequent. Cavaliers often show primary secretory otitis media. Skin-fold dermatitis (intertrigo) and muzzle furunculosis are common, and lesions can form over bony prominences where itchy dogs rub. (06:15) Sue asks what intertrigo is and why brachys get it. Laura explains shortened muzzles leave redundant skin that folds around eyes and muzzle, creating humid, low-airflow pockets that accumulate keratinous/sebaceous debris. Microbial overgrowth follows; bristly coats plus rubbing traumatises follicles and escalates inflammation. (08:06) Sue asks about prevention. Laura suggests daily fold hygiene from the start: clean away debris; consider antiseptic wipes (e.g., chlorhexidine) once or twice daily, and increase during flare-prone periods. (09:15) Sue highlights how early routines improve compliance and handling; Laura agrees it gives a “head start,” especially as atopy often appears within the first three years. (10:08) John asks how early disease presents and how to work it up. Laura explains earliest signs are diffuse erythema in the fold, then partial/complete alopecia, erosion/ulceration, crusting; severe untreated cases may progress to folliculitis and even deep pyoderma. (11:48) Sue asks about cytology. Laura explains it’s pivotal: expect keratinous debris with cocci (staphylococci) or Malassezia in overgrowth; neutrophils with intracellular bacteria indicate infection and guide therapy. (12:57) John asks if systemic antibiotics are ever needed. Laura explains they’re rarely indicated: most cases respond to topical antiseptics/antimicrobials plus strong anti-inflammatory control. Consider systemic antibiotics only for genuine deep, painful, draining pyoderma, immunosuppression, poor feasibility for topicals, or proven topical failure - always post culture & susceptibility. (15:47) John asks how she controls inflammation. Laura uses topical glucocorticoids (often in combination products). For severe inflammation, short anti-inflammatory courses of prednisolone (~0.5–1 mg/kg for a few days before tapering) can calm tissue so topicals can work. (16:48) Sue asks about long-term routines and when to consider surgery. Laura advises daily fold cleaning (once–twice daily) and twice-weekly topical anti-inflammatories (e.g., hydrocortisone aceponate or mometasone) with minimal systemic absorption; discuss surgery if medical care is impractical, or if maintenance fails with frequent relapses or recurrent infections. Chapter 2 – Viral Pigmented Plaques (VPP) (19:33) John moves to VPP and asks which brachy breeds are affected. Laura most often sees Pugs, plus Boston Terriers, Chihuahuas and French Bulldogs. (20:25) Sue asks what they look like. Laura describes numerous, heavily pigmented, slightly raised plaques that may begin flatter and become scaly, verruciform and hyperkeratotic over time. (22:00) Sue asks how to differentiate melanoma. Laura says biopsy/histopathology is the diagnostic choice; FNAs from plaques are often low-cellularity keratinocytes, whereas melanoma cytology differs. (23:43) John asks if plaques regress. Laura explains most persist or increase, likely due to a virus-specific, genetically influenced immunodeficiency in otherwise healthy, often young dogs. For treatment, Laura notes most are cosmetic, but very rarely plaques can transform to SCC, so monitoring matters. Limited numbers can be removed surgically or with laser; for numerous lesions consider systemic/medical options (e.g., azithromycin, interferon, retinoids, vitamin A, topical imiquimod) with variable success. (25:35) Sue summarises a primary-care approach: monitor unless numerous, pruritic, function-limiting or rapidly changing. Laura agrees; schedule regular reviews. Chapter 3 – Seasonal Flank Alopecia (SFA) (26:30) Sue introduces SFA and asks what it is and why it happens. Laura explains it’s a localised cyclic follicular dysplasia linked to photoperiod and melatonin; predisposed breeds include Boxers, Affenpinschers, British Bulldogs, Staffies and Chihuahuas. (29:40) John asks about geography. Laura notes seasonality is more marked away from the equator where ...
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    44 m
  • Episode 32 - Resistance is Futile! Managing MRS in Practice

    Episode 32 - Resistance is Futile! Managing MRS in Practice
    Aug 9 2025

    Chapter 1: Meet the Microbes

    (02:41) John opens the episode, introducing Dr Vanessa Schmidt and inviting her to share her background. Vanessa explains her role at the University of Liverpool, her PhD in antimicrobial resistance in staphylococci, and her leadership in infection control and antimicrobial stewardship.

    (03:38) John asks whether staph infections in pets are usually caught or part of their natural skin flora. Vanessa replies that most infections come from an animal's own commensal microbiota, which coexist harmlessly but can cause disease when the immune system or skin barrier is compromised.

    (05:07) Sue asks whether humans and animals share the same commensals. Vanessa explains that while many organisms are shared across species, each host also harbours unique flora. Cross-species transfer is possible but not common.

    (06:16) Sue asks whether different body sites have different staph species. Vanessa says this is well-mapped in humans, while in pets we know carriage is common in the nose, mouth, and perineum, but site-specific species need more study.

    (07:28) John asks about coagulase-positive vs coagulase-negative staph. Vanessa explains that coagulase-positive staph are generally more virulent, while coagulase-negative species can still be important, especially in immunocompromised hosts or in association with implants.

    (09:37) Sue asks how to interpret a coagulase-negative result on a lab report. Vanessa advises considering clinical context, immune status, culture growth level, and cytology to judge significance.

    (12:34) Sue emphasises the value of cytology. Vanessa agrees, explaining it's routine in dermatology and helps identify intracellular bacteria and neutrophilic inflammation.

    Chapter 2: Resistance Training

    (14:30) John transitions to methicillin resistance. Vanessa explains MRSP carries the mecA gene, conferring resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics. It spreads clonally and is more stable than resistance in Gram-negatives.

    (17:40) Sue asks whether antibiotic use can switch the resistance gene on or off. Vanessa says it's about selection pressure - resistant strains survive when antibiotics are overused.

    (19:03) Sue shares her “rucksack” analogy. Vanessa agrees, adding that over time resistant strains adapt, carrying resistance genes more efficiently.

    (20:15) John asks about zoonotic risk. Vanessa confirms bacteria like MRSP can pass between pets and owners, though actual infections are rare.

    Chapter 3: Less is More: Treating MRS the Smarter Way

    (22:33) Sue asks about managing MRSP pyoderma in practice. Vanessa outlines a tiered approach: treat the underlying disease, apply barrier nursing, and use topical therapy like chlorhexidine, aiming to avoid systemic antibiotics.

    (27:00) Sue raises chlorhexidine use and guideline updates. Vanessa recommends 2% or above concentrations of chlorhexidine and warns that dilution reduces effectiveness and may lead to treatment failure.

    (30:05) Sue mentions suspected resistance. Vanessa confirms resistance is reported and linked to bacterial efflux pumps. She uses hypochlorous acid or bleach as follow-up options in certain MRSP cases.

    (33:15) John asks what Vanessa avoids. She avoids systemic antibiotics in superficial MRSP unless absolutely needed, and tailors treatment to the underlying disease. Immunosuppressives are avoided if the infection arose due to immune compromise.

    (35:00) Sue asks about treating MRSP otitis. Vanessa explains that lower chlorhexidine concentrations are potentiated by TRIS-EDTA, so she still uses them as first-line ear cleaners.

    (36:40) John asks about long-term carriage. Vanessa explains MRSP can persist for months or even years. Decolonisation before high-risk surgery is common, but long-term clearance is difficult and evidence is limited.

    (39:42) Sue summarises the discussion: in MRSP, less is more - fewer antibiotics and more topicals. New guidelines offer hope for better resistance control.

    ISCAID guidelines

    https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/vde.13342?af=R&utm_campaign=Nextmune%20-%20Nextmune%20UK%20Updates&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--e1aa7hsXEupaiUzNH8tbxLSDEH8s4jALF4ScLWjefX83QJvKt5H20n5xE--r0sn9CVwFI

    Protect Me guidance from BSAVA

    https://www.bsava.com/Resources/Veterinary-resources/PROTECT-ME/
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    45 m
  • 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
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