Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Higher endotoxin exposure linked to less dog atopic dermatitis
By Looringh van Beeck, Frank A et al.·Published in Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997)·2011·Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Netherlands·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Inverse association between endotoxin exposure and canine atopic dermatitis.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A study found that adult Labrador retrievers with atopic dermatitis (CAD), which causes itchy skin and inflammation, had lower levels of endotoxin exposure in their coats compared to those without the condition. Endotoxins are substances found in certain bacteria, and higher exposure may actually help protect dogs from developing CAD. The research suggests that living in environments with more endotoxins could be beneficial for preventing this skin issue. However, no significant differences were found regarding exposure to house dust mite allergens or fungal glucans.
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Abstract
The development of canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) may be related to exposure to mite allergens, bacterial endotoxin and/or fungal glucans. In this study, indoor exposure levels of house dust mite allergens, endotoxins and fungal glucans were measured to determine their possible association with CAD. A case-control study including adult Labrador retrievers with (n=28) and without (controls; n=65) CAD was conducted. Dust samples were collected from the living room floor and the bedding and coat of the dog and these were analyzed for house dust mite allergens Der p1 and Der f1, endotoxin and (1→3)-β-d-glucan levels. Dog owners were also required to return a questionnaire regarding their home characteristics. The endotoxin exposure level in the coats of dogs was significantly inversely associated with CAD (odds ratio 0.38; 95% confidence interval 0.15-0.97; P<0.05). No significant difference was found in exposure levels to house dust mite allergens and fungal glucans. The results indicated that endotoxin exposure is inversely associated with CAD, suggesting a protective effect of high indoor endotoxin exposure towards the development of the condition.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21130010/