Changes

Food trials are often used during the course of a work-up for atopic dermatitis to eliminate food allergy as a cause of pruritus. Many atopic animals non-specifically improve during food trials on prescription hypoallergenic diets, which may be attributable to several of their components. The inclusion of zinc and long-chain omega essential fatty acids is thought to reduce inflammation, and substances such as inositol, choline, histidine, pantothenate and nicotinamide may help improve epidermal lipid barrier⁴.

Food trials are often used during the course of a work-up for atopic dermatitis to eliminate food allergy as a cause of pruritus. Many atopic animals non-specifically improve during food trials on prescription hypoallergenic diets, which may be attributable to several of their components. The inclusion of zinc and long-chain omega essential fatty acids is thought to reduce inflammation, and substances such as inositol, choline, histidine, pantothenate and nicotinamide may help improve epidermal lipid barrier⁴.

The use of topical shampoos and washes can also be beneficial. As well as physically removing allergens from the skin and coat, moisturising shampoos can hydrate the skin and improve the lipid barrier. Colloidal oatmeal may also have a direct antipruritic action⁴. Anti-microbial or anti-scaling shampoos, and ear cleaners can prove useful in certain cases depending on presentation.

Topical therapy has a number of benefits although

it is time-consuming. Physical removal of allergens

is likely to be helpful. Hydration can be prolonged

by using moisturizing shampoos and conditioners.

These can also improve the skin lipid barrier.

Colloidal oatmeal may also have a direct antipruritic

action. Virbac’s Allermyl® range contains

cases include ear cleaners and anti-microbial or

anti-scaling shampoos. The exact balance of

desired effects varies between individuals, so be

prepared to try different products and/or alternate

between antimicrobial and emollient shampoos.

====Essential fatty acids (EFA)====

====Essential fatty acids (EFA)====