Systemic lupus erythematosus is the rarest form of the disease. Symptoms include lameness, when the joints are affected, pale gums and weakness due to anemia and increased urination due to the malfunction of kidneys. Affected dogs also show ulcers in some areas of the skin, often on the footpads and ears. The nose can show a loss of pigmentation.
The symptoms of discoid or cutaneous lupus erythematosus are often related to skin problems, such as skin inflammation, red patches on the face and lesions on the ears. This form of the disease, which is considered milder than systemic lupus erythematosus, is generally associated with exposure to ultraviolet light, therefore more common in warm climate areas.
Both forms of lupus erythematosus are diagnosed through blood tests, biopsy of affected tissues and clinical observation. Although it may sound straightforward, the diagnosis of the condition is not always easy because there are many other canine diseases that show similar symptoms. During the diagnosis process, veterinaries should also considered the breed because this condition is much more common in collies, Shetland sheepdogs and German shepherds.
The treatment for lupus erythematosus includes steroids and also chemotherapy, in some cases. Dogs with skin, muscle and joint lesions have better chances of recovery. Veterinarians also recommend avoiding sun exposure or using sunscrean on dogs with skin lesions. Many dogs with kidneys complications do not survive after a year, even with treatment.