New research has suggested a link between faecal immunoglobulin A (IgA) concentration and canine atopic dermatitis (CAD).
An analysis of 68 dogs’ faecal and saliva samples revealed that dogs with CAS recorded a significantly lower mean ranked faecal IgA than healthy dogs.
Researchers collected samples from 32 atopic dogs and 36 control dogs. All of the dogs were patients at the first opinion and dermatology referral service at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies Hospital for Small Animals.
For each dog, the team measured its faecal and salivary IgA concentrations using a commercial dog IgA ELISA kit.
The faecal IgA concentration of atopic dogs was significantly lower than in the control dogs. Atopic dogs recorded a range of results from 0.05 to 5.28 g/L, while the control dogs recorded a range from 0.014 to 10.27 g/L.
Salivary IgA concentrations, however, did not differ significantly between atopic and healthy groups.
Researchers also reported no correlation between faecal and salivary IgA concentrations, since dogs with a low faecal IgA did not always have low salivary IgA. Faecal and salivary IgA concentrations could not be linked to age or breed either.
CAD is a lifelong, genetically disposed condition requiring ongoing management. Researchers hope that, by understanding the aetiopathogenesis of CAD, they will be able to refine treatment strategies.
Researchers suggest that further research investigates larger cohorts and on more high-risk breeds. They say this would increase understanding of the role of IgA in developing gut tolerance versus immune dysregulation.
Dr Francesca Soutter, corresponding author of the study, said: “This work reveals a potential role for gastrointestinal mucosal immunity in CAD, that may go beyond food allergy. We hope to explore and understand this association through further research to provide improved treatment and prevention strategies”.
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