Immune-mediated dermatoses.

The article summarises various autoimmune skin conditions prevalent in horses, including Pemphigus foliaceus and Pemphigus vulgaris. Rare conditions such as Systemic lupus erythematosus, Cutaneous lupus erythematosus, Bullous pemphigoid, Erythema multiforme, and Purpura hemorrhagica are also discussed.

Pemphigus Foliaceus and Pemphigus Vulgaris

• Pemphigus Foliaceus is noted as the most common autoimmune skin disorder in horses. The disease is linked to the production of autoantibodies that attack the surface proteins of keratinocytes, which are essential skin cells found on the epithelial surface.
• Pemphigus Vulgaris is a rarer counterpart also observed in horses. However, the details of how it affects horses or its manifestation isn’t detailed in the abstract.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus

• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (CLE) are recognized as rare autoimmune conditions in horses. While SLE affects the body’s essential systems, CLE is specific to the skin.
• Though the conditions have similar names, they are distinctly different. SLE is a systemic condition, meaning it can affect multiple body systems, while CLE is localized and affects only the horse’s skin. The exact manifestation of these diseases in horses is not given in the abstract.

Bullous Pemphigoid, Erythema Multiforme, and Purpura Hemorrhagica

• Bullous Pemphigoid is described as being caused by an immunologic attack of the basement membrane zone by autoantibodies, leading to the formation of fluid-filled blisters (bullae) at the surface of horses’ skin.
• Erythema multiforme is another immunologic skin reaction where prominent changes such as the death of keratinocytes (skin cells) can be witnessed in a biopsy.
• Purpura hemorrhagica is presumed to be similar to nonthrombocytopenic purpura in humans. Purpura refers to the appearance of red or purple discolorations on the skin, which are caused by bleeding underneath the skin.

Conclusion

• This article abstract provides an overview of different autoimmune disorders that can affect horses’ skin. It addresses the etiology of these diseases, helping improve understanding of equine dermatology. By identifying the autoantibodies involved in each disease, there is potential to develop diagnostic markers and targeted therapies in the future.