Allergic Skin Diseases of the Dog and Cat

Question 1

Describe the differences in age distribution of food allergy compared to atopy in dogs

Answer 1

Food allergy = young (<1y of age)
Atopy = typically 1-3y of age

** by comparison FAD - no real age predilection - but often >6m of age

Question 2

Describe the difference in seasonality between atopy and food allergy:

Answer 2

Atopy is seasonal. Food allergy is year round

Question 3

What time of year does atopy usually present?

Answer 3

Summer

Question 4

How does the onset of contact allergy vary compared to atopy/food allergy?

Answer 4

Often a much more raid onset

Question 5

Describe the distribution of FAD:

Answer 5

Caudal 1/2 of body - dorsal lumbosacral region, tailbase, perineum + thighs

Question 6

Describe the distribution of atopy and food allergy:

Answer 6

Face, Paws, Distal extremities, ears and ventrum

Question 7

Describe the distribution of contact allergy:

Answer 7

Hairless areas in contact with environment - abdomen, muzzle, ventrum of the paws

Question 8

What are the two main reaction patterns that are seen in cats?

Answer 8

Miliary dermatitis and eosinophilic granuloma complex

Question 9

Name the component of the feline eosinophilic granuloma complex:

An ulcerative symmetrical lesion of the upper lip

Answer 9

Indolent ulcer

Question 10

Name the component of the feline eosinophilic granuloma complex:

Mass on body or mouth

Answer 10

Eosinophilic granuloma

Question 11

Name the component of the feline eosinophilic granuloma complex:

Eosinophilic plaque

Answer 11

linear plaques of caudal thighs

Question 12

Describe the distribution of flea allergy dermatitis in the cat:

Answer 12

caudal dorsal, symmetrical alopecia or face + neck

Question 13

What is the method of diagnosis for atopy?

Answer 13

Skin (intradermal) or serum testing

Question 14

What is the method of diagnosis for contact allergy?

Answer 14

Patch testing