A clinician's guide to making a diagnosis of atopic dermatitis in dogs. Issue 4 (1st May 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Barnard, Natalie
• Is Part Of: In practice. Volume 42:Issue 4(2020)
• Page Start: 188
• Page End: 196
• Publication Date: 2020-05-01
• Subjects: Veterinary medicine -- Periodicals; Veterinary medicine; Veterinary Medicine; Periodicals; Periodical; Electronic journals; 636.089
• DOI: 10.1136/inp.m1440
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0263-841X

Abstract

Abstract : Background: The pruritic dog is a common, non‐specific clinical presentation seen in general practice that can have many different causes. A diagnosis of atopic dermatitis can only be made by excluding all other causes of pruritus. The diagnostic pathway is a process clients often find frustrating because it is lengthy and requires a lot of commitment on their part with regards to time and money. Atopic dermatitis is a disease which can be controlled but not cured, so it is vital to have the correct diagnosis before starting the patient on a lifelong treatment regime. Aim of the article: This article, the first in a three‐part series on atopic dermatitis, discusses the diagnostic steps that need to be taken to reach a diagnosis of atopic dermatitis. Parts 2 and 3, to be published in future issues of In Practice, will cover management of atopic dermatitis and how to use in‐house dermatological tests.