Search

Canine (Canis lupus familiaris) atopic dermatitis (AD) shares similar clinical signs to human AD. The abnormal immune response of AD is orchestrated by T lymphocytes, and may include variable involvement of cytokines, regulatory T (Treg) cells, eosinophils, mast cells and other immune components. Helper T (Th)2 cytokines often predominate initially, followed by Th1 cytokines in more chronic phases.Pro-inflammatory and Treg cytokines have been shown to play a role in human AD, yet their importance is not clear in canine AD. Hence, this study aimed to measure the concentrations of cytokines/chemokines not traditionally associated with Th1/Th2 response.Canine AD patients (n = 27), compared to control dogs (n = 11).A total of 19 plasma cytokines were assayed using canine specific multiplex immuno-assays.The plasma concentrations of CXC Motif Chemokine Ligand 8 (CXCL8), interleukin (IL)-7 and IL-15 cytokines were elevated in canine AD patients, compared to control dogs. In addition, stem-cell factor (SCF) concentrations were reduced in the plasma of canine AD patients compared to control dogs. Distinct cytokine profiles were found in dogs belonging to the Staffordshire breeds, a group with increased risk of AD. In particular, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) had significantly elevated concentrations.Some of the plasma cytokine alterations in canine AD described here, particularly of IL-7, have not been reported previously. Monitoring these distinctive cytokine alterations could be useful for diagnosis and monitoring of canine AD in dogs.La dermatite atopique (DA) canine (Canis lupus familiaris) partage des signes cliniques similaires à la DA humaine. La réponse immunitaire anormale de la DA est orchestrée par les lymphocytes T et peut inclure une implication variable des cytokines, des cellules T régulatrices (Treg), des éosinophiles, des mastocytes et d'autres composants immunitaires. Les cytokines Helper Th2 prédominent souvent au début, suivies par les cytokines Th1 dans les phases plus chroniques. HYPOTHÈSE/OBJECTIFS: Il a été démontré que les cytokines pro-inflammatoires et Treg jouent un rôle dans la DA humaine, mais leur importance n'est pas claire dans la DA canine. Par conséquent, cette étude visait à mesurer les concentrations de cytokines/chimiokines non traditionnellement associées à la réponse Th1/Th2.Chiens AD (n = 27), comparés aux chiens témoins (n = 11). MATÉRIELS ET MÉTHODES: Au total, 19 cytokines plasmatiques ont été dosées à l'aide d'immunotests multiplex spécifiques canins. RÉSULTATS: Les concentrations plasmatiques de CXC Motif Chemokine Ligand 8 (CXCL8), d'interleukine (IL)-7 et de cytokines IL-15 étaient élevées chez les chiens atteints de DA par rapport aux chiens témoins. De plus, les concentrations de facteur de cellules souches (SCF) ont été réduites dans le plasma des patients atteints de DA par rapport aux chiens témoins. Des profils de cytokines distincts ont été trouvés chez les chiens appartenant aux races Staffordshire, un groupe présentant un risque accru de DA. En particulier, le facteur de stimulation des colonies de granulocytes-macrophages (GM-CSF) avait des concentrations significativement élevées.Certaines des altérations des cytokines plasmatiques dans la DA canine décrites ici, en particulier de l'IL-7, n'ont pas été rapportées auparavant. Le suivi de ces altérations cytokiniques distinctives pourrait être utile pour le diagnostic et le suivi de la DA canine.INTRODUCCIÓN: la dermatitis atópica (AD) canina (Canis lupus familiaris) comparte signos clínicos similares a la AD humana. La respuesta inmune anormal de la AD está orquestada por linfocitos T y puede incluir una participación variable de citoquinas, células T reguladoras (Treg), eosinófilos, mastocitos y otros componentes inmunitarios. Las citoquinas auxiliares T (Th)2 a menudo predominan inicialmente, seguidas de las citoquinas Th1 en fases más crónicas. HIPÓTESIS/OBJETIVOS: Se ha demostrado que las citoquinas proinflamatorias y Treg desempeñan un papel en la AD humana, pero su importancia no está clara en la AD canina. Por lo tanto, este estudio tuvo como objetivo medir las concentraciones de citoquinas/quimioquinas no asociadas tradicionalmente con la respuesta Th1/Th2. ANIMALES: pacientes caninos con AD (n = 27), en comparación con perros control (n = 11). MÉTODOS Y MATERIALES: se analizaron un total de 19 citoquinas del plasma utilizando inmunoensayos multiplex específicos caninos. RESULTADOS: las concentraciones en el plasma de la quimioquina ligando 8 del motivo de quimioquina CXC (CXCL8), interleuquinas (IL)-7 e IL-15 estaban elevadas en los pacientes caninos con AD, en comparación con los perros control. Además, las concentraciones de factor de células madre (SCF) se redujeron en el plasma de los pacientes caninos con AD en comparación con los perros control. Se encontraron perfiles de citoquinas distintos en perros pertenecientes a las razas Staffordshire, un grupo con mayor riesgo de AD. En particular, el factor estimulante de colonias de granulocitos y macrófagos (GM-CSF) tenía concentraciones significativamente elevadas. CONCLUSIONES Y RELEVANCIA CLÍNICA: algunas de las alteraciones de las citoquinas del plasma en la AD canina descritas aquí, en particular de IL-7, no se han publicado previamente. El seguimiento de estas alteraciones distintivas de las citoquinas podría ser útil para el diagnóstico y seguimiento de la AD canina en perros.Die atopische Dermatitis (AD) des Hundes (Canis lupus familiaris) zeigt ähnliche klinische Zeichen wie die AD des Menschen. Die abnormale Immunantwort der AD wird durch die T Lymphozyten verursacht und kann eine unterschiedliche Beteiligung von Zytokinen, regulatorischen T (Treg) Zellen, Eosinophilen, Mastzellen und andere Immunkomponenten zeigen. Helfer T (Th)2 Zytokine sind anfangs oft dominant, gefolgt von Th1 Zytokinen in den mehr chronischen Phasen.Es konnte gezeigt werden, dass pro-entzündliche und Treg Zytokine eine wichtige Rolle bei der AD des Menschen spielen, ihre Bedeutung bei der AD des Hundes ist jedoch unklar. Daher war das Ziel dieser Studie die Messung der Konzentrationen von Zytokinen/Chemokinen, die traditionellerweise nicht mit einer Th1/Th2 Antwort im Zusammenhang stehen.Canine AD Patienten (n = 27) im Vergleich zu Kontrollhunden (n = 11).Insgesamt wurden 19 Zytokine mittels spezifischen caninen Multiplex Immuno-Assays im Plasma bestimmt.Die Plasmakonzentrationen von CXC Motif Chemokin Ligand 8 (CXCL8) sowie den Zytokinen Interleukin (IL)-7 und IL-15 waren bei den Hunden mit AD im Vergleich zu den Kontrollhunden erhöht. Zusätzlich waren die Konzentrationen des Stammzellfaktors (SCF) im Plasma von Hunden mit AD im Vergleich zu den Kontrollhunden reduziert. Deutliche Zytokinprofile wurden bei Hunden, die zu den Staffordshire Rassen gehören, bei denen es sich um eine Gruppe mit einem erhöhten AD Risiko handelt, gefunden. Im Speziellen war der Granulozyten-Makrophagenkolonie-stimulierende Faktor (GM-CSF) signifikant erhöht.Einige der Veränderungen der Plasmazytokine, die hier bei den Hunden mit AD beschrieben wurden, im Speziellen IL-7, wurden bisher noch nicht publiziert. Eine Überwachung dieser klaren Zytokin Veränderungen könnte bei der Diagnose und beim Monitoring von Hunden mit AD nützlich sein.背景: 犬 (Canis lupus familiaris)アトピー性皮膚炎(AD)は、ヒトのADと臨床症状が類似している。アトピー性皮膚炎の異常な免疫反応は、Tリンパ球を中心に、サイトカイン、レギュラトリーT(Treg) 細胞、好酸球、マスト細胞、その他の免疫成分が関与している可能性がある。初期にはヘルパーT(Th)2サイトカインが優勢で、より慢性的な段階ではTh1サイトカインが続くことが多い。 仮説/目的: 炎症性サイトカインおよびTregサイトカインは、ヒトのADにおいて役割を果たしていることが示されているが、犬ADにおいてはその重要性は明らかではない。そこで本研究では、従来はTh1/Th2反応に関連していなかったサイトカイン/ケモカインの濃度を測定することを目的とした。 被検動物: 犬AD症例(n=27)および対照犬 (n=11) を比較した。 材料と方法: 計19種類の血漿サイトカインを、犬特異的マルチプレックス免疫測定法を用いて測定した。 結果: 犬AD症例では、CXC Motif Chemokine Ligand 8(CXCL8) 、インターロイキン (IL)-7、IL-15サイトカインの血漿濃度が対照犬と比較して上昇していた。また、犬AD症例の血漿中の幹細胞因子 (SCF) 濃度は、対照犬に比べて低下していた。ADのリスクが高いとされるスタッフォードシャー種に属する犬では、独特のサイトカインプロファイルが見られた。特に、顆粒球-マクロファージコロニー刺激因子 (GM-CSF) の濃度が有意に上昇していた。 結論と臨床的妥当性: 今回報告された犬ADにおける血漿中のサイトカインの変化のうち、特にIL-7の変化はこれまでに報告されていないものである。これらの特徴的なサイトカインの変化をモニタリングすることは、犬AD診断やモニタリングに有用であると考えられる。.背景: 犬 (家犬) 特应性皮炎 (AD) 的临床症状与人类AD相似。AD的异常免疫反应由T淋巴细胞协调, 可能包括细胞因子、调节性T(Treg) 细胞、嗜酸性粒细胞、肥大细胞和其他免疫组分的不同参与。辅助性T(Th)2细胞因子最初通常占主导地位, 在更慢性阶段紧随其后的是Th1细胞因子。 假设/目标: 促炎细胞因子和Treg细胞因子已被证明在人类AD中发挥作用, 但它们在犬AD中的重要性尚不清楚。因此, 本研究旨在测量传统上与Th1/Th2反应无关的细胞因子/趋化因子的浓度。 动物: AD患犬(n=27)与对照犬 (n=11) 相比。 方法和材料: 共有19种血浆细胞因子采用犬特异性多重免疫分析法进行检测。 结果: 与对照犬相比, 犬AD患者的CXC基序趋化因子配体8(CXCL8) 、白细胞介素 (IL)-7和IL-15细胞因子的血浆浓度升高。此外, 与对照犬相比, AD患犬血浆中的干细胞因子 (SCF) 浓度降低。在斯坦福德犬身上发现了不同的细胞因子谱, 斯坦福德犬罹患AD的风险增加。尤其是粒细胞-巨噬细胞集落刺激因子 (GM-CSF) 的浓度显著升高。 结论和临床相关性: 本文描述的犬AD中的一些血浆细胞因子改变, 特别是IL-7的改变, 以前没有报道过。监测这些独特的细胞因子变化可能有助于诊断和监测AD患犬。.A dermatite atópica (DA) canina (Canis lupus familiaris) apresenta sinais clínicos similares à DA humana. A resposta imune anormal da DA é orquestrada por linfócitos T, e pode incluir o envolvimento variável de citocinas, células T regulatórias (Treg), eosinófilos, mastócitos e outros componentes imunes. As citocinas derivadas de linfócitos T helper (Th)2 geralmente predominam na fase inicial, seguidas pelas citocinas Th1 na fase mais crônica. HIPÓTESE/OBJETIVOS: Citocinas pró-inflamatórias e citocinas Treg tem demonstrado funções na DA humana, mas a sua importância ainda não é clara na DA canina. Desta forma, este estudo teve o objetivo de mensurar as concentrações de citocinas/quimiocinas não tradicionalmente associadas às respostas Th1/Th2. ANIMAIS: pacientes com DA canina (n = 27), comparados a cães controles (n = 11). MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Um total de 19 citocinas plasmáticas foram avaliadas utilizando imunoensaios multiplex específicos para cães.As concentrações plasmáticas de CXC Motif Chemokine Ligand 8 (CXCL8), interleucina (IL)-7 e IL-5 estavam aumentaas nos cães com DA, comparado aos cães controle. Além disto, as concentrações do fator de célula tronco (SCF) estavam reduzidas no plasma dos pacientes com DA canina comparada aos cães controle. Foram encontrados perfis de citocinas distintos nos cães pertencentes às raças Staffordshire, um grupo com maior risco de DA. Em particular, o fator estimulador de colônias de macrófagos-granulócitos (GM-CSF) apresentou concentrações significativamente elevadas. CONCLUSÕES E IMPORTÂNCIA CLÍNICA: Algumas das alterações nas citocinas plasmáticas na DA canina descritas aqui, particularmente IL-7, não haviam sido descritas anteriormente. O monitoramento dessas alterações distintas de citocinas pode ser útil para o diagnóstico e monitoramento da DA em cães.

Objective To evaluate contamination of unopened and opened stored sources of commercial dry dog food by viable storage mites. Design Prospective laboratory and field study. Material and methods Samples were collected from nine brands of previously unopened bags (new bags) of dry food and 20 field sources of stored dry food in homes in Sydney and Canberra, Australia. All samples were initially examined for the presence of mites using a stereo-binocular microscope and then placed in separate filter-paper-sealed containers. Field samples were incubated at an average temperature of 29°C and 78% relative humidity (RH) for 5 weeks and then at average 26°C/83% RH for 8 weeks. Paired new-bag samples were stored under room conditions (average 23°C/47% RH) and controlled incubator conditions (average 26°C/80% RH) for 6 weeks. All samples were thoroughly examined for mites, mite eggs and visible mould once weekly using a stereo-binocular microscope. Results Storage mites were not visualised in any of the field samples or in new-bag samples stored at room temperature. Storage mites, identified as Tyrophagus putrescentiae, were visualised in increasing numbers in seven of nine new-bag samples after incubation, with first mites and then eggs evident after 3 weeks of incubation. Conclusions We confirmed the presence of viable storage mites in a range of previously unopened commercial dry dog foods in Australia and confirmed the possibility of heavy storage mite contamination for dry food stored under conditions of moderate temperature and high humidity. These findings have relevance to storage mite and/or dust mite sensitivity in canine atopic dermatitis.

Objective To evaluate three easily performed methods of skin surface sampling for bacterial culture of Staphylococcus isolates obtained from dogs with superficial bacterial pyoderma (SBP) presenting to two veterinary teaching hospitals in Sydney, Australia, and to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility of isolates. Design Prospective study of 27 dogs with SBP. Cytologically confirmed SBP lesions were sampled for bacterial culture using a dry cotton swab, a saline-moistened cotton swab and a skin surface scraping. Isolates were identified by standard discriminatory phenotypic and biochemical analyses, and confirmed using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionisation time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Susceptibilities to 14 antimicrobials were determined by disk diffusion and by detection of the mecA gene using PCR. Sampling methods were compared according to bacterial yield, antibiograms and bacterial phenotypic analysis. Location of causative bacteria was evaluated via 8-mm punch skin biopsies using haematoxylin and eosin, Gram–Twort and Giemsa staining, and fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH). Results Staphylococcus sp. were isolated from lesions in all dogs, either S. pseudintermedius (24 dogs) or S. schleiferi (3 dogs). Susceptibility was highest to cephalexin (96%) and amoxycillin clavulanate (96%). Methicillin resistance assessed by mecA real-time PCR and phenotypic oxacillin resistance was found in one dog (4.3%). Routine histology and FISH revealed bacteria within superficial stratum corneum. Conclusion Staphylococcal isolates from canine SBP demonstrated high susceptibility to common empirical antimicrobials. Histological techniques confirmed presence of bacteria at superficial sites, likely to be accessed by the sampling techniques. The three techniques afforded similar results and may be equally suitable for obtaining samples for culture.

Demodicosis is frequently seen in small animal practice. In older dogs, it is often associated with immunosuppression and immunosuppressive diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate a larger number of dogs with adult-onset demodicosis (AOD) at the veterinary teaching hospitals of the University of Sydney/Australia and the University of Munich/Germany. Breed predispositions were compared with the two control populations. Of more than 20 000 dogs and 15 000 in each respective hospital population, 54 dogs in Munich and 68 dogs in Sydney were diagnosed with AOD at a mean age of 8 years. Breed predispositions were seen for West Highland White Terriers in Munich (p0.0001) and Maltese Terriers and Shih Tzus in Sydney (p0.01). Concurrent diseases were confirmed in approximately 40% of the dogs both in Munich and Sydney. A significant association was only found between AOD and hyperglucocorticoidism, hypothyroidism and (in Munich) leishmaniosis. Neoplastic diseases were not significantly more common in dogs with demodicosis than in the total population at both locations (p0.05). Consequently, dogs with AOD should be evaluated for concurrent hyperglucocorticoidism and hypothyroidism, and, in areas of the world where this is prevalent, also for leishmaniosis.

Objective To better characterise cutaneous adverse food reactions (AFR) in cats, including the diagnostic challenges. Design Retrospective evaluation of cases presenting to a dermatology referral service. Methods Cats were identified by a computerised medical record search. AFR was confirmed by clear deterioration on normal food re-challenge after completing an elimination diet, followed by improvement returning to the test diet. Prevalence, and breed, sex or age predispositions were compared with the base referral population. Patient records were reviewed for historical features, clinical presentations, concurrent dermatoses and dietary details. Results A total of 17 cats were identified with cutaneous AFR, with no breed or sex predisposition determined. Age of onset ranged from 3 months to 9 years, with a mean of 3.5 years. Prevalence was 6% of dermatoses and 10% of cutaneous hypersensitivities in the referral cat population. Cats typically presented with severe, perennial, non-seasonally flaring pruritus affecting the face/head, neck and/or ventral abdomen. Concurrent hypersensitivities were confirmed in 6 cats and/or suspected in another 5 cats. Home-prepared elimination diets were completed by 16 cats; 8 cats had initial poor response to minimum 6-week commercial hydrolysed protein diets. Identified adverse foods included fish in 2 cats, and chicken, beef, commercial dry, and some canned foods, each in 1 cat. Conclusions The prevalence of cutaneous AFR in the general cat population is likely to be greater than 6%. A range of clinical presentations occur and practical challenges to diagnosis include reliance on strict adherence to dietary exclusion/provocation trials and misleading responses related to concurrent dermatoses and owner perceptions.

Case report A 2-month-old Standardbred filly was presented for examination and treatment of extensive congenital skin lesions that had a linear distribution on the left front leg extending from the dorsal midline to the metacarpal region. The lesions were surgically excised under general anaesthesia. Surgical excision was curative and there were no signs of recurrence 6 weeks after surgery. The number and distribution of lesions were more extensive than in previously reported cases of congenital papillomas, which have also been described as epidermal growth abnormalities (naevi or hamartomas). Early reports of congenital papillomas suggest in-utero infection with papillomavirus may be responsible, despite a lack of histological features associated with papillomavirus infection. Papillomavirus immunohistochemistry has subsequently proven negative in tested cases. Conclusions The presence at birth, their appearance and the extensive distribution of lesions in this case is similar to verrucous epidermal naevus of humans. A name change from congenital papilloma to epidermal naevus is proposed for this condition in horses.

Human and canine atopic dermatitis (AD) share an association with IgE specific to environmental allergens, but few studies have evaluated serum allergen-specific IgE in nonatopic dogs. This study compared serum allergen-specific IgE levels in 30 atopic and 18 nonatopic West Highland white terriers. Atopic dermatitis was confirmed using standard criteria. Nonatopic dogs were over 5 years of age and had no clinical signs or history of AD. Serum allergen-specific IgE levels were measured with Allercept® IgE ELISAs using a 48-allergen Australian panel. Positive reactions were defined as ≥150 ELISA absorbance units. Intradermal tests were performed in 16 atopic dogs, either at the time of or at various times prior to serum collection. In atopic dogs, the most common positive ELISA and intradermal test results were to Dermatophagoides farinae (11 of 30 dogs), but there were no statistically significant correlations between results from the two methods for any allergen. In nonatopic dogs, multiple high-positive ELISA reactions were reported to 45 of 48 allergens, most commonly D. farinae and Tyrophagus putrescentiae (17 of 18 dogs each). Positive ELISA results in nonatopic dogs were statistically significantly higher than those in atopic dogs for 44 of 48 allergens, including two allergens (D. farinae and Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus) commonly regarded as significant in canine AD. In conclusion, positive allergen-specific IgE ELISAs were not specific for canine AD, and high allergen-specific IgE levels were seen in nonatopic dogs. The clinical significance of this and whether it characterizes a protective phenotype is unclear.

A sample of fourteen horse rugs and two saddle blankets stored in south western Sydney, Australia, an area of known high dust mite prevalence in the human environment, were analysed for the presence of house dust mites. Dust samples from the rugs, blankets and 16 control sites were collected using a vacuum cleaner with a modified attachment and filter. Dust mites were extracted using an adapted floatation technique. Eight rugs and all control samples were positive for mites, which were confirmed to be house dust mites of the genus Dermatophagoides. This study confirms that exposure to house dust mites from horse rugs can occur, indicating that house dust mite allergen reactivity on intradermal and serum allergy testing in atopic horses may represent true dust mite hypersensitivity. Nevertheless, quantification studies will be necessary to ensure that there is adequate mite exposure for development of hypersensitivity, and further evaluation of immunological responses, avoidance and provocation, and specific immunotherapy are required to confirm the clinical relevance. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to document the presence of house dust mites in the equine environment. Resume Un echantillon de 14 couvertures de chevaux et deux tapis de selle entreposees en Australie, dans le sud ouest de Sydney, une zone connue pour sa prevalence elevee d’acarien de poussiere dans l’environnement humain, a ete analyse pour la presence d’acariens de poussiere de maison. Des echantillons de poussiere des couvertures, des tapis de selle et de 16 sites de controle ont ete preleves par un aspirateur equipe d’un sac et d’un filtre speciaux. Les acariens de poussiere ont ete extraits par la technique de flottaison. Huit couvertures et tous les echantillons de controle etaient positifs pour les acariens, ceux-ci ont ete identifies du genre Dermatophagoides. Cette etude confirme que l’exposition aux acariens de la poussiere de maison par l’intermediaire des couvertures de chevaux existe. Ceci indique que les tests intradermiques positifs aux allergenes des acariens de la poussiere de maison ou les tests seriques allergiques des chevaux atopiques peuvent correspondre a une reelle hypersensibilite aux acariens ou a une reactivite croisee (par exemple aux acariens de stockage). Cependant, des etudes quantitatives seront necessaires pour prouver qu’il y a une exposition suffisante aux acariens pour le developpement d’une hypersensibilite et d’autres tests de reponse immunologiques, eviction et provocation, immunotherapie specifique, sont necessaires pour confirmer la pertinence clinique. A la connaissance des auteurs, il s’agit de la premiere etude qui documente la presence d’acariens de poussiere de maison dans l’environnement des chevaux. Resumen Se analizaron muestras de catorce alfombras de caballos y de dos mantas de silla almacenadas en el suroeste de Sidney, Australia, un area de conocida alta prevalencia de acaros de polvo en el entorno humano, y se analizaron para la presencia de acaros del polvo. Las muestras de polvo de las alfombras, de las mantas y de 16 lugares control se extrajeron con una aspiradora con un filtro modificado. Los acaros se extrajeron utilizando una tecnica de flotacion adaptada. Ocho alfombras y todas las muestras control fueron positivas para acaros, los cuales fueron identificados como acaros del polvo del genero Dermatophagoides. Este estudio confirma que puede producirse exposicion a acaros del polvo en las alfombras de caballos, lo cual indica que la reactividad a los alergenos de acaros en pruebas intradermicas y pruebas alergicas del suero en caballos atopicos puede representar una verdadera hipersensibilidad a acaros del polvo o reactividad cruzada (por ejemplo con acaros de la comida almacenada). Sin embargo, estudios cuantitativos seran necesarios para asegurarse de que hay una exposicion suficiente a los acaros para desarrollar hipersensibilidad; y mayor evaluacion de las respuestas inmunologicas, retirada y provocacion, e inmunoterapia especifica son requerimientos para confirmar la relevancia clinica. A nuestro entender, este es el primer estudio que documenta la presencia de acaros del polvo en el entorno de equinos. Zusammenfassung Eine Auswahl von vierzehn Pferdedecken und zwei Satteldecken, die im Sudwesten von Sydney, Australien, gelagert waren, einer Gegend, die fur die hohe Pravalenz von Hausstaubmilben in der menschlichen Umgebung bekannt ist, wurde auf das Vorkommen von Hausstaubmilben untersucht. Staubproben von den Pferde- und Satteldecken und von 16 Kontrollstellen wurden mit Hilfe eines Staubsaugers mit modifiziertem Aufsatz und Filter, gesammelt. Die Hausstaubmilben wurden mittels einer adaptierten Flotationsmethode extrahiert. Acht Pferdedecken und alle Kontrollstellen waren positiv fur Milben, die als Hausstaubmilben der Gattung Dermatophagoides bestatigt werden konnten. Diese Studie bestatigt, dass die Exposition zu Hausstaubmilben durch Pferdedecken erfolgen kann, was darauf hinweist, dass die Reaktvitat auf Hausstaubmilben im Intradermaltest und in der Serologie bei atopischen Pferden eine wahre Staubmilbenallergie oder eine Kreuzreaktion (z.B. mit Futtermittelmilben) reprasentieren kann. Dennoch werden quantitative Studien notwendig sein, um sicher zu gehen, dass eine ausreichende Exposition zu Milben besteht, um eine Hypersensibilitat zu entwickeln. Eine weitere Untersuchung der Immunreaktionen, Vermeidung und Provokation, und eine spezifische Immuntherapie sind notig, um die klinische Relevanz zu bestatigen. Nach dem besten Wissen des Autors handelt es sich hierbei um die erste Dokumentation des Vorkommens von Hausstaubmilben in der Umgebung von Pferden.

Infestations of larval and nymphal Ixodes spp. were identified in 16 dogs and 16 cats from several small animal clinics in Sydney. Cases occurred in late summer or autumn, peaking in February, and were seasonally recurrent in some individuals. Clinical signs of infestation included a papular dermatitis and irritation or pruritus that ranged from severe to mild or absent. The distribution of tick attachment tended to be cranial and ventral, with the face, legs, axillae and ventrum the most commonly affected sites. The estimated number of ticks in each infestation varied from less than 10 to more than 100. Basic morphological examination of ticks collected from affected animals was performed by attending veterinarians using light microscopy, and larvae and nymphs belonging to the Ixodes genus were identified. Ticks collected from 17 animals and submitted to the Department of Medical Entomology, Westmead Hospital were putatively identified as I. trichosuri (57%) and I. holocyclus (25%) larvae. Histopathological samples of attachment sites collected from three dogs and one cat were characterised by ticks attached in well-demarcated invaginations of the skin ('tick craters') associated with variable epidermal and/or dermal necrosis, focal eosinophilic intraspinous pustules, mild to marked eosinophilic and neutrophilic, superficial to deep, dermal perivascular to interstitial inflammation, and moderate to marked superficial dermal oedema and red cell extravasation. A range of topical acaricidal preparations, including fipronil and synthetic pyrethroids, were used for treatment.

A young adult Boxer dog was presented with a papular dermatitis on the dorsal back and ventral neck that had developed while it was being treated with cyclosporine and cephalexin for atopic dermatitis and secondary superficial staphylococcal pyoderma, respectively. Histopathology demonstrated nodular to diffuse pyogranulomatous dermatitis with focal furunculosis. Numerous bacterial rods, free in the tissue and engulfed by neutrophils and macrophages, could be demonstrated on stained samples (haematoxylin-eosin; Giemsa). Bacterial culture from an aseptically collected skin biopsy punch sample yielded a pure growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, sensitive to a variety of antimicrobials. Successful treatment was accomplished following discontinuation of cyclosporine and an extended course of enrofloxacin. There has not been a recurrence of the pseudomonal pyoderma during the subsequent 2 years.

Forty-one normal horses were evaluated for reactivity to intradermally injected aqueous allergens to determine allergen threshold concentrations (TC), with potential relevance to equine intradermal testing (IDT). Horses were tested three times over 1 year to assess seasonal variation in reactivity, using three to five serial dilutions of 27 allergens each time. Injection sites were evaluated after 15 min, 1 h, 4 h and 24 h. The highest allergen concentration at which10% of horses demonstrated positive reactivity (subjective score ofor = 2, scale of 0 to 4) at 15 min was considered the TC. The TC was determined for nine pollens (2000 to6000 PNU mL(-1)), four moulds (4000 to6000 PNU mL(-1)), seven insects (ant, horse fly 125 PNU mL(-1); house fly, cockroach 250 PNU mL(-1); moth 60 PNU mL(-1); mosquito 1000 PNU mL(-1); Culicoides nebeculosis 1 : 5000 w v(-1)) and three of four storage mites (1 : 10,000 w v(-1)). The TC was not determined due to excessive reactivity at the lowest concentrations tested for dust mites (Dermatophagoides farinae [1 : 12,000 w v(-1)], D. pteronyssinus [1 : 30,000 w v(-1)]), and Acarus siro (1 : 10,000 w v(-1)). Minor variation in the TC for specific allergens occurred in different seasons. Progressive sensitization with repeat testing occurred for grain mill dust mix. Positive reactivity at 1 h and 4 h occurred in10% of horses for nine of 19 allergens (pollens, mosquito, storage mites) at their determined TC. Positive reactivity was rare at 24 h. This study in normal horses suggests that appropriate testing concentrations of allergens for equine IDT in atopic horses may beor = 1000 PNU mL(-1) for pollens and moulds, 60 to 250 PNU mL(-1) for most insects and1 : 12,000 w v(-1) for dust mites; and that reactions at 1-4 h may be insignificant.

Background Genetic studies on canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) indicate that large populations from one geographical location are preferred for the identification of relevant susceptibility genes. Australian dogs are relatively isolated; studies on CAD in this population are limited. Hypothesis/Objectives To identify breeds at risk in the Australian dog population and to compare with worldwide breed predisposition. Animals Case records (n = 23,000) from University Veterinary Teaching Hospital (UVTH) dogs, including 722 with CAD. Methods The breed proportion of CAD and odds risk (OR) were calculated. A systematic review of 13 previous studies (1971–2010) was performed and compared to the study results by implementing an atopic dermatitis (AD)-to-reference population ratio (ADRPR). Results Eleven dog breeds with significant increased OR (≥1.0) were identified; all with breed CAD cases proportionally higher than their base hospital population. Gender risk in males from the pug dog breed (P = 0.007) was detected and the bichon frise breed had a similar trend (P = 0.05). Sixteen predisposed dog breeds were identified by systematic review. All breeds with significant increased OR in UVTH had ADRPR > 1.4; five (boxer, bulldog, Labrador retriever, pug, West Highland white terrier) were recognized as predisposed worldwide. One clade of breeds with common ancestry was highly represented in CAD cases worldwide and in Australia (81% of the significant OR cases). Conclusion and clinical importance The use of a large population from one geographical location and ADRPR provided an objective comparison between worldwide AD studies; it identified one common clade of susceptible breeds. Breed genetics and related clinical presentation may help CAD diagnosis and treatment.

Background – Superficial pyoderma is traditionally considered rare in cats but may be more prevalent than previously reported. Objectives – To better characterize superficial pyoderma in cats. Animals – Fifty-two cats from a dermatology referral population over a 10 year period. Methods – This study was retrospective. Cases were included if neutrophils and intracellular bacteria were reported from surface cytology of skin lesions. Medical records were reviewed for signalment, historical and clinical data, cytology results, primary skin diagnoses and treatment details. Results – Disease prevalence was 20%, with no breed or sex predispositions. The estimated median age of onset was 2 years, affecting 54% of cats by 3 years and 23% after 9 years. Fewer cases presented during winter (15%) compared with other seasons. Skin lesions were typically multifocal, affecting the face (62%), neck (37%), limbs (33%) and ventral abdomen (29%) most commonly. Crusting (83%), alopecia (67%), ulceration/erosion (54%) and erythema (46%) were common lesion types. Pruritus was reported in 92% of cats. Underlying hypersensitivities (confirmed in 60%; suspected in 19%), and atopic dermatitis specifically (confirmed in 48%), were the most frequent primary dermatoses. Cats were treated with a variety of systemic and/or topical antimicrobials. The overall apparent response was considered good in 61% and poor in 27% of cats. Recurrence was confirmed or suspected in 42% of cats. Conclusions and clinical importance – Feline superficial pyoderma was more prevalent in this study population than previously reported. Young cats with hypersensitivities and older cats were more commonly affected, and a variety of lesion types and distributions occurred. Resume Contexte – La pyodermite superficielle est consideree comme une entite rare chez le chat. Sa prevalence pourrait cependant etre plus importante que precedemment rapporte. Objectifs – Mieux caracteriser la pyodermite superficielle du chat. Sujets – Cinquante deux chats issus d’une population de dermatologie referee sur une periode de 10 ans. Methodes – Cette etude est retrospective. Les cas ont ete inclus si des cytologies de surface des lesions cutanees permettaient de mettre en evidence des neutrophiles et des bacteries intracellulaires. Les donnees medicales ont ete revues pour le signalement, l’anamnese et les donnees cliniques, les resultats cytologiques, les diagnostics primaires cutanes et les details du traitement. Resultats – La prevalence de la maladie etait de 20% sans predisposition de sexe ou de race. L’âge moyen estimea l’apparition de la maladie etait de 2 ans, touchant 54% des chats de 3 ans et 23% apres 9 ans. Peu de cas etaient presentes en hiver (15%) compare aux autres saisons. Les lesions cutanees etaient typiquement multifocales affectant la face (62%), le cou (37%), les posterieurs (33%) et l’abdomen ventral (29%) le plus frequemment. Les croutes (83%), l’alopecie (67%), les ulcerations/erosions (54%) et l’erytheme (46%) etaient les lesions frequentes. Le prurit etait rapporte pour 92% des chats. Les hypersensibilites sous-jacentes (confirmees dans 60% des cas, suspectees dans 19% des cas), et la dermatite atopique specifiquement (confirmee dans 48% des cas), etaient les dermatoses primaires les plus frequentes. Les chats etaient traites avec une variete d’antimicrobiens systemiques et/ou topiques. La reponse globale apparente etait consideree comme bonne dans 61% des cas et faible dans 27% des cas. La recidive etait suspectee ou confirmee pour 42% des chats. Conclusions et importance clinique – La pyodermite superficielle feline est plus prevalente dans la population etudiee que precedemment rapporte. Les jeunes chats atteints d’hypersensibilites et les chats âges sont plus frequemment atteints et une variete de types lesionnels et de distributions existent. Resumen Introduccion – la pioderma superficial se considera tradicionalmente rara en gatos pero puede ser mas frecuente de lo anteriormente publicado. Objetivos – caracterizar mejor la pioderma superficial en gatos. Animales – cincuenta y dos gatos de una clinica de dermatologia durante un periodo de 10 anos. Metodos – este estudio fue retrospectivo. Los casos fueron incluidos si se indicaba la presencia de neutrofilos y bacterias intracelulares en citologia superficial de las lesiones de la piel. Los expedientes medicos se revisaron para obtener informacion de las caracteristicas de los animales, los datos historicos y clinicos, resultados de la citologia, diagnostico inicial y los detalles del tratamiento. Resultados – la prevalencia de la enfermedad fue del 20%, sin predisposicion de raza o sexo. La edad media estimada de inicio de la enfermedad fue de 2 anos, afectando el 54% de los gatos a los 3 anos y el 23% despues de 9 anos. Se presentaron menos casos durante el invierno (15%) comparado con otras estaciones. Las lesiones de piel fueron tipicamente multifocales, afectando principalmente cara (62%), cuello (37%), extremidades (33%) y abdomen ventral (29%). Las formas mas frecuentes de lesion fueron costras (83%), alopecia (67%), erosion /ulceracion (54%) y eritema (46%). Se observaron signos indicativos de prurito en un 92% de gatos. Las dermatosis primarias mas frecuentes que promovieron la pioderma fueron dermatitis alergica (confirmada en un 60%; sospechada en un 19%), y dermatitis atopica (confirmada en un 48%). Los gatos fueron tratados con una variedad de antimicrobianos sistemicos o topicos. La respuesta al tratamiento se considero buena en un 61% de casos y pobre en un 27% de gatos. Recidiva se confirmo o sospecho en un 42% de gatos. Conclusiones e importancia clinica – la pioderma superficial felina fue mas frecuente en esta poblacion de lo anteriormente publicado. Los gatos jovenes con hipersensibilidad y gatos viejos presentaron la enfermedad con mas frecuencia y se observaron una variedad de lesiones y de distribucion. Zusammenfassung Hintergrund – Die oberflachliche Pyodermie kommt bei Katzen eher selten vor, konnte aber pravalenter sein als bisher beschrieben. Ziele – eine bessere Charakterisierung der oberflachliche Pyodermie bei Katzen. Tiere – Zweiundfunfzig Katzen aus dem Klientel einer dermatologischen Uberweisungspraxis uber einen Verlauf von 10 Jahren. Methoden – Es handelt sich hierbei um eine retrospektive Studie. Falle wurden inkludiert, wenn neutrophile Granulozyten und intrazellulare Bakterien auf der Oberflachenzytologie einer Hautveranderung beschrieben worden waren. Die Patientendateien wurden auf Signalement, Anamnese und klinische Daten, Ergebnisse der Zytologie, Primardiagnose der Hauterkrankung und Details der Behandlung durchgesehen. Ergebnisse – Erkrankungspravalenz betrug 20%, ohne eine Rasse- oder Geschlechtspradisposition. Das geschatzte mediane Alter zu Beginn betrug 2 Jahre, wobei 54% der Katzen im Alter von 3 Jahren und 23% der Katzen mit 9 Jahren betroffen waren. Im Vergleich zu anderen Saisonen wurden wahrend des Winters weniger Falle vorgestellt (15%). Die Hautveranderungen waren typischerweise multifokal, wobei das Gesicht (62%), der Hals (37%), die Extremitaten (33%) und das ventrale Abdomen (29%) am haufigsten betroffen waren. Krustenbildung (83%), Alopezie (67%), Ulzeration /Erosion (54%) und Erythem (46%) waren haufige typische Lasionen. Juckreiz wurde bei 92% der Katzen beschrieben. Zugrundeliegende Hypersensibilitaten (bestatigt in 62%; vermutet bei 19% der Falle) und atopische Dermatitis im Speziellen (bestatigt bei 48%) waren die haufigsten primaren Dermatosen. Die Katzen wurden mit einer Vielfalt von systemischen und/oder topischen Antibiotika behandelt. Insgesamt wurde die Antwort darauf in 61% der Falle als gut und bei 27% der Katzen als schlecht eingestuft. Ein Wiederauftreten wurde bei 42% der Katzen bestatigt oder vermutet. Schlussfolgerung und klinische Bedeutung – Die feline oberflachliche Pyodermie trat in dieser Studienpopulation haufiger auf als bisher beschrieben worden ist. Junge Katzen mit Uberempfindlichkeiten und altere Katzen waren haufiger betroffen und eine Vielfalt an verschiedenen Hautveranderungen und Verteilungen kamen vor.