Which of the following is an indicator that a skin issue might have a systemic origin?

A persistent skin condition is indeed an indicator that a skin issue might have a systemic origin. When skin problems are chronic and do not respond to typical local treatments, it suggests that there may be underlying health issues affecting the animal as a whole. Systemic origins could include hormonal imbalances, autoimmune diseases, or diseases that affect metabolism, such as diabetes or liver dysfunction. These conditions can manifest as skin issues due to their impact on overall health and body function. In contrast, localized itching or hair loss may not necessarily indicate a systemic problem, as they can often stem from external factors like allergies or parasites. Behavioral changes can also indicate various issues but may not specifically correlate with skin problems. Thus, the persistence of a skin condition often leads veterinarians to investigate deeper to determine if the root cause is systemic.