Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Management of canine atopic dermatitis
- Journal:
- Companion Animal
- Year:
- 2020
- Authors:
- Lipscomb, Hannah & De Bellis, Filippo
- Affiliation:
- Dermatology Intern, Southern Counties Veterinary Specialists, Unit 6 Forest Corner Farm, Hangersley, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 3JW
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
Canine atopic dermatitis is a skin condition that can show up in two ways: as a sudden flare-up or as a long-lasting issue, and each type needs different care. For sudden flare-ups, it's crucial to find and remove what’s causing the reaction and to use quick treatments, either on the skin or through medication. For long-lasting cases, the focus is on figuring out what triggers the symptoms, managing the intense itching, and using prevention strategies. There are four prescription treatments available for long-term itching relief, including oral medications and injections. The best way to help a dog with this condition is through a specific treatment called allergen-specific immunotherapy, which can sometimes completely clear up the symptoms.
Abstract
Canine atopic dermatitis can present in two different ways — acute versus chronic — which require different treatment. When dealing with an acute flare, it is important to try and identify and eliminate the trigger and then provide fast-acting topical and/or systemic treatment. The treatment of chronic atopic dermatitis differs as it includes identification of flare factors, treatment of pruritus and prevention strategies. For long-term treatment of pruritus, there are currently four licenced prescription options available: oral glucocorticoids, oral ciclosporin, oral oclacitinib and injectable lokivetmab. The key prevention strategy for canine atopic dermatitis is allergen-specific immunotherapy and it is currently the only treatment that may induce complete remission of clinical signs. Alongside treatment for cases of canine atopic dermatitis, it is important to effectively communicate with clients in order to achieve compliance and medical adherence.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://doi.org/10.12968/coan.2020.0007