PubMed abstract PMID: 15284402
abstract also posted in the files section of the K9Kitchen discussion group
Monica's Comments
A common allergic reaction among dogs (and humans), Atopic Dermatitis
is better understood these days. Major causes include:
· Environmental factors
· Genetic factors
· Changes in the skin itself
· Sometimes, the presence of autoimmunity issues
The course of the disease is also strongly influenced by the presence of yeast or Staph organisms.
Since Atopic Dermatitis arises from so many sources, no single solution fixes all dogs with this condition. Therefore, the modern approach, as Dr. DeBoer states, is to develop a specific therapy based on the dog's individual profile.
The full study is posted at the Nutrition.org for a two-day reading fee of $8 per computer.
The Abstract
Atopic dermatitis is a common allergic skin disease of complex etiopathogenesis in both humans and dogs. Immediate-type hypersensitivity to environmental allergens that arises as a result of environmental and genetic factors is a major part of the pathogenesis in most but not all patients. Alterations in epidermal barrier function, priming of cutaneous antigen-presenting cells with IgE, intrinsic keratinocyte defects, and even development of autoimmunity are also factors that contribute to the primary disease. Secondary factors, especially infections with Staphylococcus and yeast organisms, strongly influence the course of this skin disease. The relatively recent understanding of the complexities of atopic dermatitis has resulted in changes in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for the disease. We now know that the best therapeutic approach is to use combinations of multiple modalities individualized for each patient over the course of his or her lifetime.
Study Authors
DeBoer DJ.
Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine,
University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
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