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.
10 questions · Passing score: 70%
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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.