Health Condition

Atopic Dermatitis

A chronic allergic skin condition caused by an inherited predisposition to environmental allergens.

Detailed Description

Atopic dermatitis is an inherited tendency to develop allergic reactions to environmental allergens such as pollens, dust mites, and molds. It manifests as chronic itching, skin inflammation, and secondary infections, often requiring lifelong management.

Common Symptoms

Chronic itching (pruritus)
Red, inflamed skin
Recurrent ear infections
Licking or chewing paws

Management Options

Allergen avoidance
Medicated shampoos
Antihistamines, corticosteroids, or cyclosporine
Allergen-specific immunotherapy

Frequently Asked Questions

Are some breeds more prone to allergies?

Yes, certain breeds have a higher risk of atopic dermatitis due to genetic predisposition.

Can allergies be cured?

No, but symptoms can be managed with a combination of therapies.

Condition Details

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Typical Age of Onset

6 months to 3 years

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Testing Available

Yes

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Diagnosing Methods

Clinical history and exclusion of other causes; Allergy testing (intradermal or serum IgE)

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Preventative Measures

Breeding away from affected lines; Early intervention to prevent chronic changes

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Related Conditions

Food allergy, Flea allergy dermatitis

Affected Breeds

Airedale Terrier

Prevalence: 7.5% Severity: 3/5

Airedale Terriers have a higher risk of atopic dermatitis than the canine average. Early onset of paw licking and ear infections is common.

Border Terrier

Prevalence: 10% Severity: 3/5

Border Terriers show a higher prevalence of atopic dermatitis compared to other terriers, often developing severe, chronic skin issues.

Bull Terrier

Prevalence: 7.5% Severity: 2/5

Bull Terriers have a higher risk of atopic dermatitis than many other breeds.

Chinese Shar-Pei

Severity: 3/5

Shar-Pei are among the top breeds seen for atopic dermatitis, often with severe presentations due to their skin structure.

Dalmatian

Prevalence: 15% Severity: 3/5

Dalmatians have a higher-than-average prevalence of atopic dermatitis, often requiring lifelong management for chronic skin and ear issues.

English Setter

Severity: 3/5

English Setters are predisposed to atopic dermatitis, with a higher than average risk compared to other breeds.

French Bulldog

Prevalence: 17% Severity: 3/5

French Bulldogs have a higher risk of atopic dermatitis due to genetic factors affecting skin barrier function. Persistent paw licking and facial rubbing are common early signs.

German Shepherd Dog

Prevalence: 12.5% Severity: 3/5

German Shepherd Dogs are among the top breeds affected by atopic dermatitis, with a higher prevalence and often more severe clinical signs.

German Wirehaired Pointer

Severity: 2/5

GWPs may have a slightly increased risk of atopic dermatitis, manifesting as chronic itching and skin infections.

Irish Water Spaniel

Severity: 2/5

Irish Water Spaniels are predisposed to atopic dermatitis, often presenting with early onset of ear infections and paw licking.

Japanese Spitz

Prevalence: 15% Severity: 3/5

Japanese Spitz have a higher than average risk for atopic dermatitis, with many individuals showing signs of allergic skin disease early in life.

Jindo

Severity: 3/5

Jindos have a moderate predisposition to atopic dermatitis, especially in urban environments, with symptoms often localized to the feet and face.

Kai Ken

Severity: 2/5

Kai Ken and other Japanese breeds may have a slightly higher risk for atopic dermatitis. Persistent licking or chewing of paws and face rubbing are early warning signs.

Sealyham Terrier

Prevalence: 12.5% Severity: 3/5

Sealyham Terriers have a higher than average risk of atopic dermatitis compared to the general canine population, with frequent paw licking and recurrent ear infections as early signs.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Severity: 3/5

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are among the top breeds diagnosed with atopic dermatitis in the UK.

West Highland White Terrier

Prevalence: 17.5% Severity: 3/5

Westies are among the most predisposed breeds, with a much higher prevalence and often earlier onset than the general canine population.

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