Atopic dermatitis in dogs is an inflammatory disease and is one of the most common causes of chronic itching for dogs. Atopic dermatitis is caused by an allergic reaction (hypersensitivity) to one or more environmental substances.
Atopic dermatitis in dogs Why does it develop?
A combination of factors predisposes dogs to atopic dermatitis, there is a genetic component + environmental allergens and not least an inappropriate immune reaction.
The allergens responsible for atopic dermatitis?
- Anemophilous pollen mostly birch and cypress
- Grass pollen
- Herbaceous pollens (e.g. plantain and mugwort, parietaria)
- Aeroallergens: Dust mites (The most allergenic in dogs is Dermatophagoides farinae, Dermatophagoides spp. followed by D. pteronyssinus and D. microcera and Euroglyphus maynei)
- Molds
- Food mites
- Cockroach mites
- Food allergens: beef, chicken, lamb, egg, dairy and soy
- Cigarette smoke and environmental pollution
Symptoms of atopic dermatitis in dogs
Symptoms begin in the early years (1-5 years), dogs with atopic dermatitis have intense itching more on the face and paws, other parts of the body may have very red areas (armpits, groin area, abdomen) and moist or damaged due to scratches or intense nibbling, the ears may have inflammation with recurrent infections, the dog may also have rhinitis or conjunctivitis and seasonal dermatitis as it happens in humans. Secondary lesions are: erythema, excoriations, alopecia and hyperpigmentation.
To recap: the dog with atopic dermatitis presents: itching erythema, secondary infections such as otitis, conjunctivitis, pyoderma, grazes, alopecia, reddish discoloration of the coat, hyperpigmentation.
Aspects to take into account in order to reduce symptoms and make the dog live a normal life
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease caused by an inappropriate immune reaction to environmental allergens that are absorbed through the skin, atopic dogs have an altered barrier function, the allergens penetrate and into the skin and cause allergies.
Objective nr 1 – Improve the skin barrier defect with ceramides
Allergens trigger an inappropriate immune response resulting in the production of allergen-specific IgE (immunoglobulin E) antibodies. Immunoglobulins bind to mast cells and cause itching, itching causes inflammation and wounds, inflammation and infection occur.
Objective nr 2 – Reduce immunoglobulins and balance the immune response, control inflammation, itching.
Skin dysbiosis in atopic dogs
The skin is also inhabited by a multitude of microorganisms and an imbalance of it is associated with the disease. To determine whether bacterial dysbiosis occurs on the skin of allergic animals, some studies have been carried out. In a study published in the journal Veterinary Dermatology, researchers from Texas A&M University and the University of Minnesota discussed the distribution of microbiota, how bacteria, fungi and microflora populate the bodies of humans, dogs and cats. The studies were performed using next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies revealed important information about the skin microbiota of people and dogs and cats, demonstrating that bacterial and fungal dysbiosis plays a predominant role in atopic dermatitis in humans and allergic dermatitis in dogs.
In-depth study: Microbiota of cat and dog skin: The bacteria that inhabit the skin of cats and allergic dogs
Goal nr 3 – Take care of the skin microbiota with probiotics and synbiotics
Control symptoms and itching with natural antihistamines
Antiallergic/antihistamine drugs: their effectiveness is very variable. The most commonly used antihistamines are diphenhydramine, hydroxyzine, chlorpheniramine and trimethrazine, they should be administered as preventive drugs, so every day before histamine is released, dogs with atopic dermatitis and mild itching respond more and better than dogs with chronic and severe atopic dermatitis.
Aim 4: Use natural antihistamines to control itching and reduce histamine
Improving the skin barrier defect with ceramides
They have the function of increasingskin hydration and repairingskin barrier defects
On the market it is possible to buy third-generation emollients containing ceramides, cholesterol and polyunsaturated fatty acids, they are emollients that promote epidermal differentiation and correct the defect of the intercorneocyte lipid cement, regulate skin hydration and shield from external aggressions. Some products may also contain PEA palmitoylethanolamide in order to enhance the anti-itching and anti-inflammatory action.
Recommended product: Virbac Spot-On Allerderm
Skin Lipid Complex: an exclusive complex of ceramides and fatty acids similar to those found in healthy skin, ensures the function of skin barrier and improves the vitality of the skin thanks to S-I-S (Skin Innovative Science technology) anti-adhesive effect against microorganisms (Glycotechnology), stimulation of the skin’s natural microbial defenses (Defensin technology).
Reduce immunoglobulins and balance the immune response with homeopathy and homotoxicology
The immune system and the Th1/Th2 Balance
REGULATE THE IMMUNE RESPONSE
CELL-MEDIATED TH1/TH2
The atopic dog manifests an immune response mediated by IgE, this peculiarity is due to a deviation of the Th2-type cellular immune response, (it is in allergic diseases and dermatitis that the Th2 inflammatory response prevails). The overactivity of Th2 lymphocytes increases the production of interleukins IL-3, IL-4 (stimulation of B lymphocytes to produce IgE) and interleukin IL-5 (it is overabundant in atopic diseases and asthma) and interleukin IL-6, therefore a response mediated by Th1 lymphocytes would decrease hypersensitivity to allergic and autoimmune diseases including atopic dermatitis.
Everything so simple but….
Comparing canine atopic dermatitis to AD in humans, several studies have shown that the biphasic response in cytokine production in humans can also be found and reported in dogs. This means that acute lesions are characterized by the presence of Th2 lymphocytes and the interleukins and cytokines secreted by them, some are: IL-4 (one of the predominant cytokines in inflamed atopic skin) and IL-5 interleukin. In the presence of chronic lesions, on the other hand, Th-1 lymphocytes predominate, producing interleukin IL-2 and interferon gamma. This mode of lymphocyte change is controlled by certain cells called IDEC (inflammatory dendritic epidermal cells).
Inflammatory dendritic epidermal cells (CDIEs)
Langerhans cells are dendritic cells abundant in the skin and some mucous membranes. Together with dermal dendritic cells and skin macrophages, they form part of SALT (Skin Associated Lymphoid Tissue)
In atopic dermatitis, the cells most involved are: T lymphocytes, Langherans cells, endothelial cells, eosinophils and keratinocytes. Langerhans cells and skin cells have the task of inducing the immune response by presenting the antigen to T lymphocytes, consequently activating a lymphocyte response against both new and already recognized antigens, therefore dendritic cells play a pivotal role in the development of the immune reaction.
Since the immune response is variable, we can summarize that:
A dog with atopic dermatitis + acute lesions has a type 2 (Th2) immune response with production of IL-4 and IL-5 interleukins.
A dog with atopic dermatitis + chronic lesions has a type 1 (Th1) immune response with production of interleukin IL-2 and interferon gamma.
HOW TO REGULATE THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
- Is it possible to correct the excess or defect and the production of interleukins?
- Is it possible to modulate the TH1/TH2 immune response?
- Is it possible to modulate the abnormal Th2 response to allergens?
- Is it possible to improve and strengthen the skin barrier (SKIN IMMUNE SYSTEM) and normalize the lipid structure?
ONE QUESTION, ONE ANSWER
Special natural molecules at low dosages, prepared with Guna technology (SKA METHOD) are able to intervene in allergic manifestations.
THE SKA (Sequential Kinetic Activation) METHOD AND LOW DOSE MEDICINE
In humans, it has been shown that low-dose medicine is an alternative and valid solution for allergy sufferers and to rebalance the Th1-Th2 balance, orally administered cytokines can also help atopic dogs
Low dose cytokines, homeopathic medicine
GUNA® Interleukin 12 (IL-12) – the anti-allergic cytokine, inhibits IL-4-induced IgE synthesis and may therefore be useful in allergic diseases, as IL-12 is antagonistic to IL-4 interleukin.
GUNA® Interferon Gamma the cytokine that regulates the immune system and is also anti-allergic, regulates and counteracts allergic responses mediated by Th2 lymphocytes. Both are available in pharmacies and are in drops.
Engystol
Engystol in dogs is indicated for the prevention and treatment of allergies, it allows you to rebalance the Th1-Th2 balance.
Atopic dermatitis in the dog Homeopathy and homotoxicological drainage
In the presence of canine atopic dermatitis , it is important to structure a DETOX AND DRAINAGE therapeutic plan. It is not a secondary choice but I would say mandatory, in this case it is possible to resort to homotoxicological drainage with Galium-Heel and Lymphomyosot to drain the connective tissue overloaded with homotoxins.
In chronic dermatitis, it is also necessary to act through the detoxification systems (liver)
- Graphites-Homaccord
- Psorinoheel n
- Galium-Heel
In homeopathy we can certainly refer with excellent results to SULFUR (an essential constituent trace element as it intervenes in numerous enzymatic processes of primary importance as it causes the reactivation of many cytoplasmic reactions)
Galium-Heel exerts its primary action on the connective matrix and is a connective tissue purifier capable of promoting the elimination of waste.
DRE 2 Skin Draining
Indicated in all acute and chronic skin diseases as it removes and drains toxic accumulations, attenuates allergic skin reactions and skin inflammation, attenuates itching and skin burning. It stimulates the anti-inflammatory action, useful in case of dermatitis.
BSS beta-sitosterol and its BSSG glycoside – the supplement Moducare
NB: THE ORIGINAL is this one do not buy other brands (they have different composition) Moducare™ Thorne Research – Moducare – Balanced Blend of Plant Sterols and Sterolins
Plant Sterol Modifier is a natural immunomodulator that can play an important role in the management of patients with Atopic Dermatitis, moreover it should not be forgotten that chronic inflammation is due to a dysregulation of the immune system and that the use of this supplement could represent a new class of agents designed to modulate the body’s defense mechanisms.
- Plant sterols decrease the hyperactivity of the immune system
- Plant sterols “modulate” or balance the immune system and reduce the production of autoantibodies
- Sterols lower cortisol levels in the body and normalize the hormone DHEA
Atopic dermatitis in dogs How to treat it with probiotics
I dealt with the topic a few months ago, some probiotic microorganisms not only affect the immune system but have anti-allergic potential, not all strains have this peculiarity, if you want to know the probiotics and the specific strains to support in case of atopic dermatitis, here they are
- Bifidobacterium breve BR03
- Bifidobacterium lactis
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG strain (ATCC 53103)
- Lactobaccillus Salivarius LS01 (DSM22775)
- Bifidobacterium lactis + Lactobacillus acidophilus + Lactobacillus plantarum + Lactococcus lactis
- Lactobacillus acidophilus + Bifidobacterium lactis
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus + Bifidobacterium lactis
- Lactobacillus plantarum + Lactobacillus paracasei
See, for example, Bifiderm, a food supplement based on probiotic microorganisms that acts on the intestinal flora, restoring its balance and helping to alleviate the symptoms of atopic dermatitis and prolong the interval between the manifestations of the syndrome.
For probiotics on the market go to the in-depth study
Natural alternatives against itching
From Phytopica to Itch Support Gold through traditional Chinese medicine!
During my research I come across scientific studies referring to a supplement (PYM00217) marketed years ago (2006) that promised quick relief from itching, searching and scanning the web there is no longer any trace of the product, the results always return the same message: “Product not available” or even worse “Page not found”. So what to do? I’m going upstream! the manufacturer and/or the company that was to market the product, respectively Phytopharm which was to launch the product in Hong Kong, and Schering-Plough Animal Health for global marketing. Also in this case little information, Arghh… but since I hardly “throw in the towel” I activate a second search: What is the composition? WHAT WERE THE CHINESE HERBS contained in Phytopica? I reach the results after about 2 hours! and here are the Chinese herbs contained in the Phytopica, in order:
Glycyrrhisa uralensis, Peony lactiflora and Rehmania glutinosa plants with immunomodulatory properties
Glycirrhisa potentiates the expression of cytokine IL-10 inhibits cytochrome p450 (Cytochrome P450 is a family of enzymes involved in the metabolism of several drugs. Through them, interaction phenomena occur that can give rise to pharmacological toxicity or reduce the therapeutic efficacy of the drugs.) it induces apoptosis of cancer cells, has antioxidant and antibacterial activity.
R. glutinosa inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and IL-1 and suppresses histamine.
P. lactiflora inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) induces apoptosis of cancer cells.
If Phytopica is no longer available, which supplement can be safely administered against intense itching?
Do we have Chinese herbs? 🙂
YES! the supplement Itch Support Gold comes to our aid which, in addition to having the three aforementioned herbs contained in Phytopica, contains astragalus (one of the best known adaptogens) plus other Chinese roots. Read carefully the instructions on their website to print or email to the veterinarian. Two formulations are available for purchase: for the dog (large breed) and for the small breed dog.
The manufacturer recommends the following dosage: administer the product orally twice a day. Give one drop for every 1 kg of body weight up to 50 pounds. Once the desired results are achieved, the formula can be discontinued and reintroduced when necessary. The formula does not have to be used constantly and is meant to be used when symptoms appear. Do not administer Itch Support Gold during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Do not administer during diarrhea. Contains licorice root: use with caution in case of heart or kidney disease. Overuse can contribute to water retention or high blood pressure.
Atopic dermatitis and phytotherapeutics
Burdock
It is mainly used in case of skin problems, dermoprotective and dermopurifying. Due to its properties, it can be used in cases of mycosis, eczema, dermatitis. the total extract of Lemuria burdock alcohol-free, pleasant, effective and practical to take, just a few drops, even directly in the mouth, can be added to pet-food. Remember that this herb is contained in ESSIAC. Do not use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, synthetic hypoglycemic agents are used to inform the veterinarian, it can cause allergies especially in subjects sensitive to composites. Burdock is one of the safest herbs you can use, there have been no toxicities associated with burdock root for dogs. However, it may lower your blood sugar.
Burdock contains Inulin, phytosterols, B vitamins, mucilage. It has diuretic and purifying properties, protects the liver, reduces blood sugar. It has an antiseptic action and is therefore used for its effects similar to antibiotics, it is mainly used in case of skin problems, stones and osteoarthritis. Burdock is useful for promoting the physiological purifying functions of the body and the drainage of body fluids.
PROPERTIES
- Detox for the kidneys and liver
- Antiseptic
- Dermoprotective and dermopurifying
- Improves circulation
- Anti-inflammatory properties useful in the treatment of arthritis
- Has a laxative effect
- Slows down the proliferation of cancer cells
- Hypoglycemic
- Cholerics
You can opt for BURDOCK (ARCTIUM LAPPA) NON-ALCOHOLIC MOTHER TINCTURE Bioalma drops
As an indication, current dosages are orally: 1 ml per 5 kg/day
Adjust dose according to weight – Dogs weighing more than 25 kg: administer maximum 5 ml/day – In acute conditions, repeat the dose 3-4 times during the day, for 5 days – In chronic conditions, once a day for 20 days, renewable.
or
Dermaphyto – Trebifarma with burdock and dandelion
Mycotherapy protocol for atopic dermatitis and to rebalance the immune system
Agaricus is the mushroom of first choice in allergic diseases where there is an alteration of the immune system Agaricus brings the immune system back to TH1 mode. (Takimoto et al., 2008)
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REISHI
Reishi has anti-allergic, antihistamine and anti-inflammatory (mycelium) action. The whole mushroom has an immunomodulatory action, hepatoprotective properties: it stimulates liver detoxification and restores liver function.
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Poria Cocos from atopic dermatitis to cancer
Is it possible to give Poria Cocos to my dog or cat?
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, it is possible to administer Poria Cocos to our dogs and cats (under strict veterinary supervision) in case of atopic dermatitis, tumors, FIV fibrosarcoma and autoimmune diseases.
EM positive effects on the immune system!
EM effective microorganisms are a large group of bacteria that have a positive effect on the immune system and are indispensable and necessary for the treatment of various diseases in dogs and cats.
The disease in humans and animals is also due to an imbalance of the intestinal bacterial flora, with EM it is possible and without side effects to improve various conditions, from diarrhea to constipation, candida, allergies, mycosis, malassezia, otitis, dermatitis can be treated in a surprising way with EM.
EM has a regenerating effect, wherever it is used to invigorate and prevent degeneration and diseases.
Therapeutic Use of Ribes Nigrum Dog Cat
As a natural antihistamine: alcohol-free blackcurrant glyceric macerate is used.
Atopic dermatitis: external use Creams and hydrolates for the reduction of itching
Lavender Hydrosol
- Relieves skin irritation
- Healing
- Relieves itching
- For cleaning the coat (keeps mosquitoes, fleas away)
Witch hazel hydrosol dog cat
Like aloe, it has astringent, antibacterial and antiseptic properties; the hydrosol is to be rubbed with a cotton ball on the lesions, I recommend the FLOWER WATER OF WITCH HAZEL – CENTIFOLIA Alcohol free
Witch hazel hydrosol also relieves irritation and itching, which is effective in case of dermatitis.
- Steam distillate
- 99.8% natural formula
Dermo gel without cortisone and without antibiotics
Heel Vet without cortisone and antibiotics, for dogs and cats are two products available:
ICHTHO VET – Derma Gel Intensive Therapy: Derma-Gel and Derma Cream Heel Vet Skin care
ICHTHO Vet Derma-Gel and ICHTHO Vet Derma Cream skin care products for dogs and cats suffering from skin irritation and itching. The cortisone-free and antibiotic-free gel relieves itching and supports skin regeneration naturally. Unless otherwise prescribed by your veterinarian, ICHTHO Vet Derma-Gel is applied once or twice a day, directly to the skin.
ATOP 7 Spray
ATOP 7 Spray+ Soothing Emulsion is a formula with 100% natural ingredients and has a physiological pH, and is a patented soothing and moisturizing emulsion for dogs and cats that suffer from irritation, itching, or prone to skin allergies. ATOP 7 Spray + soothes the animal’s skin while maintaining the skin’s barrier function. It helps to rebuild the hydrolipidic film and fight the hypersensitivity of irritated skin. The Submicron Structure (particles of 0.1 to 0.4 microns) results in immediate absorption by the skin whose action lasts several hours. Thanks to the formation of an invisible and non-occlusive protective film, this product acts as a “second skin”. ATOP 7 Spray + is a pet care product that does not contain cortisone, contains hemp and neem vegetable oils rich in essential fatty acids (Ω 3 and 6), rice extract, all painkillers. Dermoscent ATOP 7 spray + is a soothing, moisturizing, corticosteroid-free emulsion for itchy, irritated or allergic-prone skin for dogs and cats. Its micronized texture allows immediate penetration and action, with a “second skin” effect. It can be used as a single treatment, in case of moderate itching, or as a complementary treatment, in case of atopic dermatitis, parasitic dermatitis, contact dermatitis. Main ingredients: Hemp oil, neem oil, cajeputi and tea tree essential oils, caper floral button extract, oryzanol, Poria Cocos combined with PCA (natural skin moisturizing factors) in order to maximize moisturizing and soothing effectiveness.
Bibliography
Cuellar, M. J., Giner, R. M., del Carmen RECIO, M., JUST, M. J., MANEZ, S., & RIOS, J. L. (1997). Effect of the basidiomycete Poria cocos on experimental dermatitis and other inflammatory conditions. Chemical and pharmaceutical bulletin, 45(3), 492-494.
Ferguson, Ewan A., Littlewood, Janet D., Carlotti, Didier-Noël, Grover, Rob & Nuttall, Tim (2006): Management of canine atopic dermatitis using the plant extract PYM00217: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study. In: Veterinary Dermatology 17(4), 236-243
Han, Na-Ra, et al. “Cordycepin ameliorates skin inflammation in a DNFB-challenged murine model of atopic dermatitis.” Immunopharmacology and immunotoxicology (2018): 1-7.
Thepen T, Langeveld-Wildschut EG, Bihari IC, et al. Biphasic response against aeroallergen in atopic dermatitis showing a switch from an initial TH2 response to a TH1 response in situ: an immunocytochemical study. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1996; 97 (3): 828-37.
Iwamoto, Kazumasa, et al. “Langerhans and inflammatory dendritic epidermal cells in atopic dermatitis are tolerized towards TLR 2 activation.” Allergy (2018).
Ricklin, M. E., Roosje, P., & Summerfield, A. (2010). Characterization of canine dendritic cells in healthy, atopic, and non-allergic inflamed skin. Journal of clinical immunology, 30(6), 845-854.
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Olivry, T. and Hill, P. B. 2001. The ACVD task force on canine atopic dermatitis (VIII): is the epidermal lipid barrier defective? Vet. Immunol. Immunopathol. 81: 215–218.
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Shimada K, Yoon JS, Yoshihara T et al: Increased transepidermal water loss and decreased ceramide content in lesional and non-lesional skin of dogs with atopic dermatitis. In De Boer DJ, Affolter VK, Hill PB: Advances in Veterinary dermatology, Wiley-Blackwell ed.2010, pp.29-34.
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