
FROSTBITE-INDUCED SKIN LESIONS IN A WEIMERANER
A. Muller
Clinique Saint-Bernard, 598 avenue de Dunkerque 59160 Lomme, France
1. HISTORY
A female, 8-year-old Weimaraner was presented at the clinic in a state of shock, associated with severe hypothermia. She had escaped the previous evening and spent all night outdoors in temperatures ranging from -15°C to -5°C (this occurred mid-winter in Northern France).
2. CLINICAL EXAMINATION
- General examination findings were severe depression and frank hypothermia (34°C). Following treatment consisting of intravenous fluid administration and rewarming (survival blanket, warm intravenous fluids), the dog’s condition improved dramatically by the next day and she was sent home.
- Thorough dermatological examination at the time of admission revealed no abnormalities. However, the owners brought the dog back 10 days later as several similar-looking lesions had appeared on its limbs. These lesions were raised, circular areas measuring 2 to 5 cm; they had a soft texture, were slightly hyperpigmented and some were alopecic (Photos 1 to 5). Another larger lesion (bean-shaped, 8×4 cm) was found in the lumbar area, consisting of an ulcerated centre with peripheral hypopigmentation (an appearance more typical of vasculitis lesions).

Note also the raised lesion above the knee

Note its raised appearance, alopecia and its darker colour.

Note the hyperpigmentation.




(an appearance more typical of vasculitis lesions)
3. FURTHER EXAMINATIONS
The dog was hospitalised for intensive care (its general condition improved very rapidly).
- Blood tests (chemistry and haematology) revealed no particular abnormalities.
- Histopathological examination would have been beneficial but was declined by the owners.
4. DIAGNOSIS
Suspected frostbite-induced skin lesions (cryopathy)