Interdigital Pyoderma

hotspot: "Interdigital pyoderma -- often erroneously referred to as 'interdigital cysts' though no cyst structure is present -- is located between the toes and pads of the feet. It is a type of cellulitis (a condition where inflammatory fluids are forced into the tissues, rather than being discharged on the surface) that is characterized in the active stages by deep draining tracts of large pustules in one or more interdigital spaces. "

--cysts are the usual definition
E.S.

Deep Pyoderma

hotspot: "Deep Pyoderma
Deep pyoderma is a serious disease involving follicular (follicle -- a small secretory sac or cavity) ruptures caused by bacterial infection that extends to the dermis. The lesions may be localized or generalized, and often appear on the face, feet and pressure points. Deep pyoderma may include pressure point, nasal, interdigital, muzzle and chin, and generalized varieties.
Pressure point pyoderma is usually found in the large and giant breeds. The elbows, hocks, toes and outside stifles are most commonly affected. It is characterized by an increase in callous surface, persistent oozing, crusting and wearing away of the skin. Whirlpool baths of povidone iodine or chlorohexidine, and appropriate antibiotics are the indicated therapy. Providing the animal with soft bedding is also helpful. "

--we call this one the flesh eating disease because it can grow and looks awful
E.S.

Superficial Pyoderma

hotspot: "Superficial Pyoderma
Superficial pyoderma are bacterial infections which present themselves beneath the stratum corneum layer of the epidermis. Commonly called superficial folliculitis, the bacterial diseases within this group have been termed recurrent pyoderma, pruritic pyoderma, shorthaired dog pyoderma, staphylococcal allergy and bacterial hypersensitivity. All of these have similar symptoms and require similar treatment. Systemic antibiotics are appropriate therapy.
Superficial folliculitis is characterized by reddened pustules that develop a flattened crust usually five to ten millimeters in diameter. When the crust loosens, the center falls off and a thin circle of epidermal tissue (resembling a collar) remains around the periphery of the lesion. The ensuing area of skin is usually bald and hyperpigmented. It is common to have all stages of infection present at the same time.
Shorthaired dog pyoderma has a high concentration of pustules in a less extensive area -- usually the outside thighs and along the back and top of the neck. Dogs diagnosed as having shorthaired pyoderma suffer from thinning of the hair coat over the affected area.
Recurrence is common in superficial folliculitis. In cases where superficial pyoderma is diagnosed as chronic and recurrent, a genetic predisposition is suspected. In these cases, owners are left with the possibility of lifelong intermittent antibiotic therapy"

-not as bad
E.S.