Allergen‐specific immunotherapy guided by skin prick testing in a Canadian shepherd dog with atopic dermatitis

Abstract

This case report describes the successful use of allergen‐specific immunotherapy guided by skin prick testing in a Canadian shepherd dog with atopic dermatitis. The dog presented severe pruritus, hypotrichosis, erythema and generalised scaling. Hyperpigmentation and lichenification were observed on the hindlimbs, thoracic and lateral abdominal regions. Sensitisation to Cynodon dactylon and Lolium multiflorum was identified, and allergen‐specific immunotherapy was administered subcutaneously in three phases, with increasing allergen concentrations. Symptomatic treatment with oclacitinib and prednisolone was gradually withdrawn after allergen‐specific immunotherapy initiation. The therapy resulted in clinical improvement, with complete control of pruritus and skin lesions. Allergen‐specific immunotherapy proved to be an effective and safe causal therapy for canine atopic dermatitis, reducing the need for symptomatic drugs and improving quality of life.