Pemphigus foliaceus in a juvenile pygmy goat

Abstract

A 4.5 month old intact female African Pygmy Goat presented to the CUHA Equine and Farm Animal Hospital in November, 2011 for an approximately two month history of crusting skin disease and a more recent onset of depression, inappetence and fever. Cytology of lesions was consistent with pemphigus foliaceus, revealing non-degenerate neutrophils, acantholytic keratinocytes and no infectious agents. Histopathology confirmed this diagnosis. The goat began treatment with tapering course of dexamethasone and niacinamide. She presented for recheck examination in March, 2012 and had been doing well at home. Her skin and hair coat were markedly improved over initial presentation. This paper describes the history, clinical signs, diagnosis and treatment of pemphigus foliaceus in a goat. Information specific to caprine pemphigus foliaceus is provided, along with the pathophysiology of this disease.