The future of immunotherapy for canine atopic dermatitis: a review

Abstract

Allergen specific immunotherapy (ASIT) is a foundation treatment for canine atopic dermatitis (CAD), though few critical studies have documented its effectiveness as a disease‐modifying treatment in dogs. The mechanisms by whichASITworks in dogs have not been elucidated, although they are likely to parallel those known for humans. CurrentASITapproaches inCADfocus on either subcutaneous or sublingual administration. Greater knowledge of major allergens in dogs, ideal dosage regimes and details of allergen admixture are likely to lead to better efficacy inCAD. Evaluation of biomarkers for successful therapy may also be of benefit.Potentially important advances in human medicine, that have yet to be explored in dogs, include use of modified allergen preparations such as allergoids, recombinant major allergens or allergen peptides; modification with adjuvants; or packaging of the above in virus‐like particles. Co‐administration of immunomodulators such as CpG oligodeoxynucleotides or specific monoclonal antibodies might direct the immune response in the desired direction while calming the “cytokine storm” of active disease.Initial trials of alternative routes of administration such as intralymphatic immunotherapy have yielded exciting results in humans, and continuing study in dogs is underway. Progress inASITof human food allergy may provide clues that will assist with improved diagnosis and patient management ofCAD. Importantly, further study must be undertaken to clarify the conditions under whichASITis a valuable treatment modality for dogs.