Primary Prevention of Canine Atopic Dermatitis: Breaking the Cycle—A Narrative Review

Abstract

Canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) is a common and distressing skin condition in dogs, affecting up to 30% of the canine population. It not only impacts their quality of life but also that of their owners. Like human atopic dermatitis (hAD), cAD has a complex pathogenesis, including genetic and environmental factors. Current treatments focus on managing clinical signs, but they can be costly and have limitations. This article emphasizes the importance of preventing cAD from developing in the first place. Understanding the role of the skin’s protective barrier is crucial, as its dysfunction plays a vital role in both hAD and cAD. hAD prevention studies have shown promising results in enhancing the skin barrier, but more research is needed to support more robust conclusions. While hAD primary prevention is currently a focal point of intensive investigation in human medicine, research on cAD primary prevention remains under-researched and almost non-existent. Pioneering effective prevention strategies for cAD holds immense potential to enhance the quality of life for both dogs and their owners. Additionally, it bears the promise of a translational impact on human research. Hence, further exploration of this crucial topic is not only relevant but also timely and imperative, warranting support and encouragement.

Yeast-Derived Nucleotides Enhance Fibroblast Migration and Proliferation and Provide Clinical Benefits in Atopic Dermatitis

“…Atopic dermatitis is still a complex, incurable disease affecting a large population of dogs, leading to a marked reduction in quality of life for both dogs and their owners, causing emotional and financial strain [ 19 , 42 ]. Nucleotides could potentially serve many different clinical applications.…”

“…Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) shares many similarities with atopic dermatitis in people because, in both cases, skin barrier impairment, cutaneous dysbiosis, and immunological dysfunction are key elements involved in its pathogenesis [ 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 ]. CAD requires long-term management, combining topical and systemic therapies, which often results in a highly complex and expensive regime for pet owners [ 19 ]. This causes not only discomfort and distress for the dog but also generates stress and a negative impact on the quality of life of the pet’s owner [ 20 ].…”

Efficacy of Chlorhexidine Impregnated Wipes for the Local Dysbiosis in Atopic Dogs: A Multicentric Prospective Study

“…The wipes used in this study were well tolerated as no adverse effect was reported over 14 days. While antiseptics are typically favoured for addressing acute flares of atopic dermatitis, long-term management of chronic cases necessitates a comprehensive approach focused on enhancing skin and coat hygiene, to reinforce the skin barrier and limit the development of skin dysbiosis [ 25 , 26 ].…”