ᴅʀ. ʟᴀᴜʀᴇɴ ᴀɴᴛʜᴏɴʏ + ᴅʀ. ᴅᴀɴɪᴇʟ ᴀɴᴛʜᴏɴʏ

Juvenile Cellulitis (Puppy Strangles)

Juvenile cellulitis is an uncommon, presumed immune-mediated disease that most often affects puppies between 1–4 months of age. Clinical signs include facial edema, particularly around the muzzle and periocular region, pustules, crusting, alopecia, otitis externa, and mandibular lymphadenomegaly. Fine-needle aspirates of affected lymph nodes commonly reveal pyogranulomatous inflammation.

Treatment centers on immunosuppressive glucocorticoids, typically prednisone at 1–2 mg/kg/day, with gradual tapering once clinical remission is achieved. Secondary bacterial infections may warrant systemic antibiotics and gentle antiseptic skin care. Early recognition and appropriate treatment generally carry an excellent prognosis, with most patients achieving remission within 1–2 months. Scarring alopecia may persist in severely affected areas.

Side Note: Generalized juvenile demodicosis can mimic this presentation. Consider appropriate diagnostic testing and maintain labeled isoxazoline therapy when indicated.

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