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Dermatology, Allergy, and Ear Disease Specialty Service
The Dermatology, Allergy, and Ear Disease Specialists at Michigan State University are committed to the patient’s quality of life and communication with clients as top priorities, with the overall goal of being an integral part of the diagnosis and management of each animal’s skin-related problems for the life of the pet.
Some of the most common skin diseases that we diagnose and treat are the various allergic skin and ear diseases that may affect dogs and cats, such as environmental allergies (dusts, molds, and pollens) and food allergies. With regard to environmental allergies (atopic dermatitis, atopy), we offer allergy testing (intradermal testing) with the goal of using immunotherapy injections (allergy shots) for the treatment of these allergies as an alternative to the use of various drugs. We then provide the allergens for this treatment option and each owner is instructed on how to give these injections to their own pets. The diagnosis and management of food allergy related disorders is often more challenging and frustrating for pet owners, as there are not any reliable skin testing or blood testing methods available for use in dogs and cats. Most cases require the prolonged use (2-3 months) of either a prescription or home-cooked elimination diet, with periodic re-evaluations of the pet while on the restricted diet.
Other common problems assessed on our service include recurrent ear infections (otitis externa and otitis media), recurrent skin infections due to bacteria (Staphylococcus) and yeast (Malassezia), chronic fungal infections (ringworm), and chronic mange problems (scabies, Demodex).
