Amphibian skin diseases.

Skin diseases in amphibian species seem to carry an additional degree of seriousness compared with those of other vertebrates. Because of the skin's importance in respiration and ion transport, breaching of the integument of these animals can result in fatal septicemias or metabolic disturbances. The timely diagnosis and treatment of these skin lesions is important. A review of the diseases affecting amphibian skin is provided. This article also describes the clinical signs, appropriate diagnostic steps, and treatment and control of amphibian skin diseases.