Serum allergen-specific and total IgE concentrations in dogs with allergic disorders in South Korea

Abstract

Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) has a genetic basis and is primarily a skin disorder characterized by allergic features. It is caused by an excessive immune response, associated with immunoglobulin E (IgE), to allergens and shows clinical signs of itching and inflammation. The present study evaluated the allergen-specific and total IgE concentration in dogs with allergic disorders. Allergen-specific IgE analysis was performed using a Multiple Allergen Simultaneous Test (MAST) assay, and total IgE analysis was conducted using an ELISA in 82 dogs with CAD. The subjects were divided into two groups: dogs aged ≤3 years and dogs aged >3 years, enabling a comparison of total IgE concentrations between the two age groups. The results showed that the major affecting environmental allergen was Alternaria alternate, and the major affecting dietary allergen was raw chestnut. The results revealed that dogs aged ≤3 years had higher total IgE concentrations than dogs aged >3 years with significant difference. The results of this study can contribute to the diagnosis and treatment of CAD in South Korea.