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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Getting the most from dermatopathology.

Journal:
The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice
Year:
2007
Authors:
Campbell, Gregory A & Sauber, Leslie
Affiliation:
Oklahoma State University Center for Veterinary Health Sciences · United States

Plain-English summary

Dermatohistopathology is a valuable tool for diagnosing skin issues in pets. It involves a close partnership between the veterinarian and a specialist who examines skin samples under a microscope. The veterinarian needs to know when to take skin biopsies, which areas to sample for the best chance of getting useful information, and how to collect those samples properly. They also need to provide the pathologist with detailed information about the pet's condition. The pathologist, in turn, should be knowledgeable about skin diseases and work closely with the veterinarian to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

Abstract

Dermatohistopathology is one of the most powerful diagnostic tools in clinical dermatology. It is a process in which the veterinary clinician and the veterinary pathologist must consider themselves a team in patient care. The veterinary clinician must know when biopsies are indicated; be able to select lesions to biopsy that are likely to yield diagnostic results; skillfully procure the biopsy samples; and provide the pathologist with an accurate history, clinical description, and clinical differential diagnosis. The pathologist should have particular interest and expertise in dermatohistopathology, be readily accessible to the clinician, and be vigilant in the pursuit of an accurate histologic description and diagnosis.

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Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17336681/