Grooming

Drvet

Petshop

Blog

Digitalvet

.html5-video-container video::-webkit-media-controls { display: none !important; }

A one-year-old Labrador experiencing persistent non-seasonal itching.
Diagnosis and conclusions

Consultation sought for a one-year-old Labrador experiencing persistent nonseasonal pruritus without cutaneous lesions. Despite prior treatments, the issue persists, leading to a remote dermatology consultation via DRVET.CH

Remote dermatology

Highlighting the importance of patient history in dermatology, a remote dermatologist collects information indicating the canine's diet is centered around a BARF diet with beef and beef-based kibble. The owner observes the dog's preference for a specific spot on a long hair carpet, and symptoms have been present since the canine's puppyhood.

Fig 1: The one-year-old Labrador

Acting on the remote dermatologist's advice, a serum allergy screening test is performed by sending samples to Laboklin laboratory, revealing susceptibility to IgE beef and Dermatophagoides farinae (dust mite). The recommended protocol includes an Elimination Diet Trial with Hill's Prescription Diet Derm Complete food followed by a provocation test after 8 weeks. Apoquel (Janus-kinase inhibitor) is prescribed, starting with one pill twice a day for 2 weeks and then one pill per day for the following 3 weeks.

Fig 2: Hill's Prescription Diet Derm Complete

To assess results, the remote dermatologist introduces a Pruritus Visual Analog Scale (PVAS) and a Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index (CADESI)-4 chart through the Hill’s Atopy Index app. Additionally, the removal of the long hair carpet is suggested.

Fig 3: The Pruritus Visual Analog Scale (PVAS)

Fig 4: The Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index (CADESI)-4 chart through the Hill’s Atopy Index app