Managing insect bite hypersensitivity in horses.

Despite extensive research in recent years into the aetiopathogenesis of sweet itch (more appropriately termed insect bite hypersensitivity or IBH) there have been no revelations in options for treatment. Where new treatments have become available they have not been supported by published evidence of efficacy leaving clinicians uncertain as to their relative merits. The absence of universally effective treatments has left the door open for a plethora of products to line the tack shop shelves frequently leaving the veterinary profession side-lined when it comes to managing the condition. This is regrettable as advice on effective management and avoidance strategies is likely to be infinitely more valuable than any treatments employed after clinical signs have developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]