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We gratefully acknowledge the contributions to prior editions of this chapter by Drs. The integument serves as the anatomic boundary between the body and the ambient environment.
The vast surface area of the skin puts it in constant contact with environmental irritants, pollutants, and pathogens. Unlike diseases in internal viscera, lesions in the skin are readily apparent, and thus skin disease is one of the most common reasons for veterinary consultation.
Skin diseases range from minor, esthetic problems to life-threatening conditions. In companion animals, a healthy pelage haircoat stands as the interface between the human owner and pet. In addition to causing undo suffering, severe skin disease may interfere with the human-animal bond.
In farm animals, skin diseases produce severe economic losses because of damage to wool, hides, and meat or from decreased milk production or growth rates.
