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Clinical Management of Pruritus in Small Animals
Pruritus is a complex, multifactorial clinical sign representing the sensation of itching that triggers a scratch response. This article outlines the systematic diagnostic approach to identifying the underlying etiology, ranging from hypersensitivity to parasitic infestation, and reviews current therapeutic management strategies.
Clinical summary
- Possible causes
- Ectoparasites, allergic dermatitis (atopic, food, flea-allergic), infections (pyoderma, Malassezia dermatitis), and endocrine imbalances.
- Diagnostic approach
- Dermatologic physical exam, skin scrapings, cytology (impression smears/tape prep), trichogram, and dietary elimination trials.
- Management
- Multimodal therapy: allergen avoidance, topical antipruritics, systemic medications (oclacitinib, lokivetmab, corticosteroids, cyclosporine), and addressing secondary infections.
References
- [1]Miller, W.H., Griffin, C.E., Campbell, K.L.. Muller and Kirk's Small Animal Dermatology (2013)
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