Diagnosis
Generally a thorough history and physical examination can provide a lot of information. In some cases further testing may be warranted to detected underlying skin or ear infections. May also find out about your pets parasite control for flea, ticks and mites.
What treatment options do I have for my pet?
Most pets showing signs of atopic dermatits can be intensely itchy and uncomfortable. A multimodal treatment plan is required with the first step being to provide improve comfort levels. Short term medication can help to reduce the itch, discomfort and any secondary concerns such as infection.
For cases where symptoms may return a longer term plan is needed to reduce a flare up of symptoms
We tend to recommend a combination of treatments
- Short term medications to stop the itch and treat any underlying skin infections
- Topical washes and lotion both soothing and medicated
- Appropriate therapeutic diets and supplements can also aid in the reduction of symptoms and flare ups.
Treatments include
Short term Stop the Itch
- Apoquel is oral medication specifically designed to be used for allergic and atopic dermatitis it can be used in the short term to quickly reduce redness, inflammation and itch. It can also be used in conjunction with the longer term such as cytopoint.. Since Apoquel it is NOT a steroid it does not have the associated side effects.
- Cytopoint which is one of the newest treatment options known as a Monoclonal Antibody. Cytopoint is able to block the allergen from binding to receptors thereby stopping the release of interleukin and cytokines which stops the itch/inflammation cycle from starting.
- Cytopoint is given as a regular injection that works to stop the itch reaction in the first place before the skin becomes inflamed and damaged. We have had some wonderful results with many pets being able to stop all other medication.
- Anti-histamines: Antihistamines are not always very effective but can help to reduce some itching and complement other treatments.
- Cortisone can also be used in the short term for the reduction of itch and redness. Longer term use is not ideal as it can lead to many side effects such as increased thirst and urination, weight gain, hair loss and immunosuppression and liver changes.
Treating Secondary Infections
- Antibiotics and antifungals are sometimes when skin infections are present., however with the increase of bacterial resistance it is often reserved for only the most severe cases.
- Topical washes /Treatments: Medicated shampoos, conditioners and lotions play a vital role in the management of pets with chronic atopic dermatitis. Most help to soothe and re-hydrate the skin, and Newer types such as Nutriderm and also help to improve the skin barrier defence when used regularly. Medicated washes such as Malaseb, or Mediderm help control infection and can be a suitable replacement for oral antibiotics.
Long term Management
Most cases of atopic dermatitis will be ongoing with some periods during the year causing intense flare ups. Ongoing management includes, staying on top of the itch and improving the skins barrier defence system
This may involve the use of an effective anti-allergy medication, regular medicated washes and nutritional support such as Derm-complete, which is a specifically formulated diet to reduce skin allergies.
The take home message…
It is important to realize that allergic dermatitis is not a curable problem and needs to be managed to reduce severity and flare ups.
In many pets the aim of treatment is a comfortable pet who has limited desire to itch and is on the minimal amount of medications (if any) as possible.
