Atopy

Atopy is an allergic skin disorder that causes seasonal itchiness for a few weeks or for months of the year. This is often a frustrating medical problem for everyone involved and generally requires considerable time, money and effort by the owner and veterinarian to diagnose and treat. However, once diagnosed, it is a controllable condition, but requires lifetime management.

Atopic pets most notably chew their feet, scratch their ears or rub their faces on the ground. However, they are certainly not limited to these symptoms. Seasonal variations in symptoms may occur as well as flare-ups during certain times of day, e.g. first thing in the morning. Complicating factors in the management of atopic pets are fleas and food hypersensitivities.

The skin of an atopic animal may appear completely normal. It may also be red and inflamed with crusty, hairless patches where the dog has been scratching. Some animals have a strong odor that is often associated with secondary bacterial or yeast infections. All infections must be treated in order to control the itching.

The diagnosis of atopy is based on ruling out many other diseases. This may involve drug trials, diet trials, hormonal testing, aggressive flea control, antibiotics, medicated shampoos, antiparasite drugs, antihistamines, and/or corticosteroids. The hallmark of testing for atopy is blood allergy testing or intradermal skin testing. This is done in anticipation of a hyposenstization program involving the owner giving injections to their pet to decrease the allergic response of the animal to the allergens. There are also a variety of other medications such as Atopica which can help with atopic conditions.

A few breeds of dogs are more susceptible to atopy. These are the Shar Pei, Golden Retriever, Dalmatian, Boxer, and all terrier breeds. Symptoms begin to appear when the animals are young adults (around 2years old). Affected animals should not be used for breeding.

Atopy very rarely leads to the premature death of a pet. Appropriate diagnostics and judicious use of medications/hyposensitization programs and consistent home care should allow you and your pet to enjoy life.