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Antibiotic-responsive generalized nonlesional pruritus in a dog
1Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853.
The Cornell Veterinarian
|October 11, 1991
Summary
A dog with chronic itching was diagnosed with bacterial hypersensitivity. Treatment with antibiotics and a staphylococcal vaccine provided long-term itch relief.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Generalized pruritus in dogs can be challenging to diagnose.
- Standard allergy testing and dietary trials may not identify the underlying cause.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old dog presented with a 5-month history of nonresponsive generalized pruritus.
- Intradermal testing with 63 inhaled allergens and a hypoallergenic diet were inconclusive.
Findings:
- Intradermal skin testing with a staphylococcal cell wall/toxoid mixture indicated bacterial hypersensitivity.
- Skin biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of bacterial hypersensitivity.
Implications:
- Bacterial hypersensitivity is a potential cause of chronic pruritus in dogs.
- Combined antibiotic therapy and staphylococcal vaccination can effectively manage bacterial hypersensitivity.
- This case highlights the importance of considering bacterial hypersensitivity in refractory pruritic conditions.