Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex (EGC) is a term used to describe a group of skin disorders in cats characterized by the presence of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in the affected tissues. EGC can manifest in various forms and locations, making it a challenging condition for both cat owners and veterinarians. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex in cats, including its causes, types, symptoms, and available treatment options.
This syndrome describes a group of skin conditions in cats. Most of the cases are caused by an underlying allergy and can be effectively resolved by treating the allergy. In a few cases more invasive or prolonged treatment is required. Whatever the cause, it is important to seek veterinary advice early in the course of the disease to have the best chance of resolution. If your cat has any itchy or sore looking patches on their skin or ulcers on their lip which refuse to heal you should make an appointment with your vet immediately.
What is eosinophilic granuloma complex?
Eosinophilic granuloma syndrome is a term used to describe a group of skin conditions in cats which although looking quite different have a similar cause. You might be more familiar with the condition under one of its other names:
Indolent ulcer or rodent ulcer: this is an ulceration on the lip in most cases affecting the top lip. There is no pain or itching associated with the lesion but the ulcers can look quite dramatic.
Eosinophilic plaque: is a thickened raw looking patch of skin. These areas are usually very itchy and your cat may scratch and lick at it constantly. Often the area is wet as the damaged skin oozes a sticky serum. These can be found anywhere on the skin or lips but most often on the abdomen and hind legs. These may become very extensive (up to 7 cm in diameter).
Eosinophilic granuloma or linear granuloma: these are thickened patches of skin which may be in strips or lumps and can be found anywhere on the skin or in the mouth. Sometimes these are associated with swelling of the chin. No pain or itching is seen with these lesions. This form of the disease is more often seen in adolescent cats.
What causes eosinophilic granuloma complex?
Eosinophilic granuloma complex is usually the result of an allergic reaction. In most cases this is reaction to flea bites but other allergies such as food, insect (mosquito) bites or other parasitic infections eg lice or mange can also be involved. In some cases the underlying cause is a bacterial skin infection. In a few cases, despite extensive investigation no cause can be identified.
How will I know if my cat has eosinophilic granuloma complex?
If your cat constantly licks at a particular area, check for any sore patches or lumps. If you find any, seek advice from your vet. If your cat has any combination of indolent ulcer, eosinophilic plaque or linear granuloma they are suffering from eosinophilic granuloma complex.
Symptoms
The symptoms of EGC can vary based on the specific form and location, but common signs include:
-
Red, Raised Lesions: Eosinophilic plaques and granulomas are often red, raised, and may be accompanied by hair loss.
-
Itching and Scratching: Affected cats may frequently scratch or groom the affected area due to discomfort.
-
Ulceration: Lesions may become ulcerated, leading to open sores and potential secondary infections.
-
Difficulty Eating: Cats with oral eosinophilic granulomas may experience pain and difficulty eating.
How will my vet know if my cat has eosinophilic granuloma complex?
Your vet may well suspect that your cat has eosinophilic granuloma simply from the appearance of the skin changes. Your vet may also take a small sample of nodules (using a needle). This sample can be examined under a microscope and if there is a particularly high number of eosinophils (except in the case of indolent ulcers) present then this may confirm the diagnosis. A skin biopsy will provide the ultimate diagnosis. Some forms of cancer can appear very similar to eosinophilic granulomas.
It is important to identify where possible what is causing the condition. Since parasitic infestation is the most common cause of skin problems your vet will want to be sure that your cat does not have any such infestation. They may use a flea comb or skin scrape to check for fleas or other parasites. Intradermal skin tests can be used to identify allergic reactions to other parasites or environmental factors. To rule out a dietary allergy your vet may ask you to put your cat on a special diet for several weeks.
Can eosinophilic granuloma complex be treated?
The treatment approach for EGC focuses on managing the underlying cause and alleviating symptoms. Treatment options may include:
-
Identifying and Avoiding Allergens: If allergies are suspected triggers, identifying and eliminating the allergen can significantly improve the condition.
-
Corticosteroids: Veterinary-prescribed corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response, providing relief from symptoms.
-
Antibiotics: If secondary bacterial infections are present, antibiotics may be prescribed to clear the infection.
-
Topical Treatments: Topical ointments, creams, or gels can be used to soothe the affected skin and promote healing.
-
Dietary Changes: In cases of suspected food allergies, a hypoallergenic diet may be recommended to determine and eliminate potential triggers.
If an underlying cause is identified the first step in management is to control this problem. If a parasitic infestation (such as fleas) has been identified then initial treatment is directed at controlling the infection with ectoparasitides. Antibiotics can be used to treat any bacterial skin disease. Dietary changes, and insect control are other treatment routes depending on the cause of the eosinophilic granuloma complex.
If there is no response to the control of the underlying problems your vet may prescribe other drugs (such as steroids) to control the allergic reaction. If long-term steroid treatment is needed then your cat will need to be tested for side-effects.
Will my cat get better?
There will usually be an improvement in clinical signs after 3-6 weeks but if the underlying cause cannot be identified and treated. However, long-term management of the symptoms may be required to control the condition if no specific cause is identified.
Conclusion
Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex in cats can be a challenging condition to manage, but with proper veterinary care, accurate diagnosis, and targeted treatment, affected cats can lead comfortable lives. Cat owners play a crucial role in observing their pet's behavior and skin condition, allowing for early detection and intervention. Working closely with a veterinarian to identify triggers and develop a tailored treatment plan is essential in managing and improving the quality of life for cats affected by EGC.
