Darier Disease

Affected dogs may have well-defined areas of crusting or ulceration within their ears and/or cysts (nodules) anywhere on their skin. These lesions can be both painful and itchy.

This disease is typically diagnosed in puppies, often before the age of six months.

A combination of clinical signs, genetic testing, and skin biopsy can be used to diagnose Darier Disease.

Darier Disease can be challenging to treat. Antibiotics can be used when secondary infections are present. Surgery may be performed to remove the cysts (nodules). Laser therapy can be used to manage the lesions in the ears.

Talk to your vet about your dog’s Darier disease result so you can discuss the best plan for monitoring and skin care.

Check your dog’s ears and skin regularly for any new bumps, crusting, or irritation, and keep the affected areas clean and dry.

Use gentle, moisturizing, or medicated shampoos as recommended to help manage scaling and discomfort.

Provide a soft, clean environment to reduce skin irritation and help your dog stay comfortable.

This variant was first described in the Irish Terrier.

Penetrance: This variant is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, meaning that a dog with either one or two copies of the variant can show signs of Darier Disease.

Gene

ATP2A2 Intron 14

Inheritance type

dominant

Clinical category

Integument

Citations

1. Linek et al 2020

• Irish Terrier