Allergen specific IgG(d) antibodies in dogs with atopic dermatitis as determined by the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)

Allergen specific IgG(d) antibodies were detected by the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in 89% of the 62 atopic dogs studied. Antibodies were found most frequently against house dust (47%), human dander (50%), grass pollen (58%) and spring tree pollens (43%). These antibodies were also found in 11 of 20 dogs with atopic symptoms but without immediate skin test reactivity to inhalant allergens. Agreement between the presence of skin reactivity and allergen specific IgG(d) titres ranged from one of 14 for cat dander to 22 of 34 for house dust. Among dogs with atopic symptoms but without skin test reactivity and specific IgG(d) titres to the respective allergens, the agreement varied between 28 of 54 for human dander and 67 of 68 for cat dander. In view of the value of the dog as an experimental model of atopic disease in man, further studies of the pathophysiological significance of IgG(d) antibodies are warranted. In addition, reconsideration of the diagnostic criteria for canine atopic dermatitis, as done by Hanifin & Rajka (1980) in man, seems indicated.