Dermatology Referral Service

Our dermatology referral service provides advanced investigation and management of complex and chronic skin and ear disease. We work closely with referring veterinary surgeons to deliver structured diagnostics, evidence-based treatment plans, and clear ongoing communication throughout each case.

Dermatology Services

We accept referrals for the investigation and management of a wide range of dermatological and otic conditions, including:

• Atopic dermatitis
• Alopecia investigations
• Chronic otitis externa
• Otitis media
• Pododermatitis
• Feline dermatological disease
• Dermatological manifestations of endocrine disease

Each case is assessed individually, with diagnostic and treatment plans tailored to the patient’s clinical presentation and referral history.

Dermatology Services

Our dermatology service offers a range of advanced investigations and interventional procedures, including:

  • In-house cytology and initial skin investigations
  • Video otoscopy for assessment of the ear canal, tympanic membrane, and middle ear
  • Chronic otitis investigations under general anaesthesia
  • Intradermal skin testing (IDST)
  • Serological allergy testing
  • Contrast CT imaging for selected otic cases

These investigations allow accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment planning, particularly in chronic or recurrent disease.

Chronic otitis is a common and often multifactorial condition, frequently associated with allergic, infectious, or anatomical causes. Successful management relies on identification of primary and perpetuating factors.

We routinely utilise video otoscopy under general anaesthesia to allow detailed assessment of the ear canal, tympanic membrane, and, where indicated, the middle ear. This approach improves diagnostic accuracy and facilitates targeted treatment. Some cases may require repeat procedures as part of long-term disease management.

Allergy testing may be indicated in selected cases of canine and feline atopic dermatitis to help identify relevant environmental allergens.

Testing options include:

  • Intradermal skin testing (IDST)
  • Serological (blood) testing for allergen-specific IgE

Results are used to guide management strategies, which may include allergen avoidance, medical therapy, and allergen-specific immunotherapy. Ongoing monitoring and follow-up are essential to assess response and adjust treatment plans.

Chronic dermatological conditions may present with persistent pruritus, alopecia, recurrent infections, or otitis. Many conditions share similar clinical features, making diagnosis and long-term management challenging.

We work closely with referring veterinary surgeons to manage complex cases involving allergic, infectious, parasitic, endocrine, and neoplastic disease. Where cure is not achievable, the focus is on long-term disease control, reduction of clinical signs, and improvement in patient quality of life.

We offer a free dermatological advice service to support general practice veterinary surgeons with case management, diagnostic decision-making, and treatment planning.

Advice can be provided via telephone or email and may be offered prior to referral or during ongoing case management.

Referring a Dermatology Case and Package

CASECOST
Referral consultation (1 hour):£250
Cytology package£100
Intradermal skin testing (sedation, IDST and interpretation)£600
Chronic otitis investigations (general anaestheisa, contrast CT with external specialist interpretation, video otoscopy and lavage): £2250-£2600


Our fees reflect use of specialist dermatology equipment and in-house diagnostic testing, allowing efficient investigation and same-day diagnostics where appropriate.

Referring veterinarians can submit cases via our website or contact us at 01270 439277.

Viorela Singeorzan
CSAVP (Dermatology) MRCVS
RCVS recognised certificate holder in Small Animal Dermatology.

Viorela Singeorzan is a certificate holder in veterinary dermatology, having achieved her qualification in 2023. She has developed her clinical expertise within a referral hospital setting and has undertaken extensive postgraduate training, including advanced dermatology workshops in the UK and abroad.

Her clinical interests include complex dermatological disease and chronic otitis. She is known for her systematic, methodical approach to case investigation and her strong focus on communication with both referring veterinary surgeons and clients.

James HigginsRVN

James joined Eden Vets in 2023 as a Student Veterinary Nurse and qualified the same year from Myerscough College. His rotations sparked a strong interest in medicine, dermatology, and nurse-led clinics.

In 2025, James became a Dermatology Nurse at Eden’s referral service, combining his love of dermatology with clinical laboratory work. He works closely with dermatologist Viorela, running nurse-led clinics and liaising with clients.

James holds the BVNA Oral Care Nurse Certificate, is pursuing a top-up degree in Biomedical Science, and is working towards the VTS qualification in Clinical Pathology.