What Does The Skin & Itch Test Dog Look For?Updated 4 months ago
The MySimplePetLab Skin & Itch Test is a microscopic exam (cytology) of material from the surface of your dog’s skin. The skin cytology looks for signs of infection such as the overgrowth of bacteria or yeast.
The MySimplePetLab Skin & Itch Test is a microscopic exam (cytology) of material (cells or discharge) from the surface of your dog’s skin. The skin sample is collected by simply swabbing the skin surface, within skin folds, or between toes, then thinly smeared onto a glass slide and dipped in special stains in a laboratory. Skin cytology is the first test used by vets for signs of skin infection (dermatitis) such as skin discharge, scratching at the skin, or chewing paws. This time-consuming test is done in-clinic by the vet staff, either during or after the vet visit. It is the gold-standard screening test. The MySimplePetLab Skin & Itch Test screens for:
MySimplePetLab skin infection test results are designed to be shared with your vet. This saves time during your dog’s vet visit to get to the best treatment or next step tests faster if needed. Getting to the source of the skin infection and treatment fast is important to keep your dog comfortable and avoid more permanent damage to their skin or coat. Topical or oral treatment for skin infection may involve a variety of antibacterial, antifungal, anti-itch, anti-inflammatory, or antiparasitic medications. Additional tests by your veterinarian after this skin cytology may be necessary, such as “skin scrapes” to look more deeply into the skin for mange mites or blood tests to look for endocrine disorders like hypothyroidism.
Learn More
Collecting a Sample for a Skin & Itch Dog Test
When Should I Use a Skin & Itch Test?
Skin & Itch Test Results and Next Steps
Additional Questions? Chat us at MySimplePetLab.com, email [email protected], or call us at 833-PET-TEST (833-738-8378).