Use of etretinate for treatment of primary keratinization disorders (idiopathic seborrhea) in Cocker Spaniels, West Highland White Terriers, and Basset Hounds

An open clinical trial was used to evaluate the synthetic retinoid, etretinate, for treatment of idiopathic seborrhea in Cocker Spaniels, West Highland White Terriers, and Basset Hounds. Clinical and histologic improvement was seen in the Cocker Spaniels. Etretinate had no beneficial effect on the skin disease of the West Highland White Terriers or the Basset Hounds. Etretinate treatment did not alter the type or degree of otitis externa. Clinical side effects were minimal. Relevant laboratory abnormalities were not detected.