Evidence-based diagnosis and management of cutaneous adverse food reactions in dogs
4-year-old Labrador Retriever with year-round pruritus, recurrent ear infections, and multiple antibiotic courses. Cooper has previously failed a food trial done incorrectly by a different veterinarian. Owner brings serum IgE food allergy test results.
IgE-mediated vs. non-IgE-mediated mechanisms. Most common allergens in dogs: beef, chicken, dairy, wheat. Most common allergens in cats: beef, fish, chicken. Breed predispositions. Year-round clinical signs indistinguishable from atopy.
Evidence that serum IgE and IgG food panels have no diagnostic validity (Hillier & Griffin 2001; Mueller et al. 2005). Hair and saliva tests are completely unvalidated. The elimination trial is the ONLY valid diagnostic test for food allergy.
Novel protein vs. hydrolyzed protein selection criteria. Strict 10-12 week duration required. Total compliance mandate: all food, treats, flavored medications, dental chews, human food. Managing secondary infections during trial period.
Positive trial definition: ≥50% improvement. Rechallenge protocol: reintroduce original diet, flare within 1-2 weeks confirms diagnosis. Provocation challenge methodology to identify specific allergens.
Appropriate long-term diet options. Reading ingredient labels correctly. Cross-contamination risks and OTC limited ingredient diet pitfalls. Cooper's outcome and prognosis.
10 questions · Passing score: 70%
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