# Serological Investigations on Environmental Allergens Triggering Allergic Dermatitis in Dogs from Western Romania

## TL;DR

This study identifies house dust mites, rye pollen, and flea allergens as common triggers of allergic skin conditions in dogs from Western Romania, with breed, sex, and diet influencing susceptibility.

## Contribution

The study provides population-specific insights into allergen triggers and risk factors for allergic dermatitis in dogs from Western Romania.

## Key findings

- House dust mites (Dermatophagoides farinae) were the most common allergen, affecting 91% of reactive dogs.
- Male dogs, indoor pets, and young dogs on dry food diets were found to be at higher risk of allergic skin conditions.
- Common symptoms included itching (60%), ear infections (42%), and skin lesions (66%).

## Abstract

Allergic skin conditions are a common encounter in dogs. This study analyzed 250 dogs from Western Romania, identifying house dust mites (Dermatophagoides farinae, 91%), rye pollen (45%), and flea allergens (15%) as the most common triggers. Certain breeds, including Maltese, French Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, and West Highland White Terriers, showed a higher predisposition to allergic reactions. Statistical analysis revealed that male dogs, indoor pets, and young dogs on a dry food diet were at a higher risk of developing allergic skin conditions. The most frequent symptoms included itching (60%), ear infections (42%), and skin lesions (66%). These findings suggest a relationship between environmental and dietary factors and inflammatory dermatoses in dogs, providing population-level insights for Western Romania. While common environmental allergens are known triggers, this study does not establish which ones are the most prevalent. Additionally, although allergen testing can aid in identifying sensitivities, further research is needed to determine its impact on patient outcomes, including the effectiveness of immunotherapy. The potential link between diet and allergic conditions also requires more investigation to establish a stronger correlation.

This study focused on identifying the environmental allergens causing allergic dermatitis in 250 dogs from Western Romania. Among the 250 dogs tested, 43% (107) exhibited significant allergic reactions (IgE levels greater than 2 kU/L), particularly in Maltese, French Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, and West Highland White Terriers. The highest reactivity was observed to house dust mites (Dermatophagoides farinae, 91%), rye pollen (45%), and flea allergen Ctef 1 (15%). Statistical analyses revealed significant correlations between breed, sex, and living environment. Males exhibited a higher susceptibility to allergies (p < 0.001), whereas dogs that spent most of their time indoors were significantly more susceptible to allergic diseases than their mostly outdoors counterparts (p < 0.05). Additionally, dogs under two years old, especially those on a dry food diet, had an elevated risk of developing allergies (p < 0.01). Clinical manifestations included pruritus (60%), otitis externa (42%), and specific skin lesions (66%). The study underscores the role of environmental and dietary factors in the development of allergies in dogs. However, financial limitations related to allergy testing kits restricted the sample size, highlighting the need for further, more comprehensive research to enhance the generalizability of these findings.