Lau-Gillard P, Walker C, Robinson V, Paterson S, Patel A, Littlewood J, Hardy J, Debellis F, Barnard N, Neuber-Watts A, Hendricks A, Varjonen K, Hill PB. UK-based multicentre cross-sectional study assessing advice requests veterinary dermatologists received from general practitioners.
Vet Rec 2023;
192:e2784. [PMID:
37039062 DOI:
10.1002/vetr.2784]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
There is little currently little information available regarding the nature of the advice requests veterinary dermatologists receive from general practitioners. Collation of such data could direct continuing veterinary development in the future.
METHODS
Dermatologists completed hand-written recording sheets during or after enquiries. Information recorded included the route of enquiry, nature of advice, material provided, practice type and location, animal signalment, presenting signs, diagnosis/differential diagnosis, treatment and referral recommendations, time taken and if charges were made.
RESULTS
Twelve dermatology services recorded 768 advice requests over a 6-month period. Most requests were submitted via email and related to canine dermatology (81%). An average of 9.5 minutes was spent replying to requests. Charges were made in 2% of cases. Advice regarding otitis was most commonly sought, followed by pruritus, alopecia and crusting. The most frequently discussed diagnoses included allergy, otitis, pyoderma, demodicosis, dermatophytosis and neoplasia. Antibiotics, anti-pruritics and topical otic medications were the most commonly discussed therapeutics.
LIMITATIONS
This is an initial study and therefore there are limitations involving the depth of the data. Additional studies should be completed which identify why advice is sought, decision-making regarding referral, and if advice should be charged similarly to other disciplines.
CONCLUSIONS
These findings highlight that veterinarians mostly frequently seek advice on management of common dermatological problems, including allergy, otitis and pyoderma.
Collapse