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Allergic Pulmonary Disease This is a form of illness induced by malfunction of the immune system. There are only 2 main conditions in this group which are commonly seen in dogs. P.I.E. Syndrome This is the result of exposure, and subsequent sensitisation, to natural environmental allergens. Antibody or cell mediated reactions occur against these allergens and it is this that is responsible for the disease process, which is essentially an inflammatory response in the lung tissue. Often the antigen causing the disease is not identified. The chronic presentation starts with a persistent, non-productive cough with harsh breath sounds. The sudden onset syndrome presents with respiratory distress, inappetance and often fever. Cell samples taken from the lung passages can be used for diagnosis as they contain substantial numbers of eosinophil cells. This syndrome responds well to corticosteroid therapy, if these require to be used long term then this should be done on the lowest effective dose. Eosinophilic Bronchitis This condition is similar to asthma, it is common in cats but relatively rare in dogs. The reaction to the antigen causes constriction of the lung passages resulting in sudden onset coughing or gagging, occasionally a gradual onset syndrome can present over a period of a few days. Chest x-rays may show bronchial change. This condition also responds well to corticosteroid treatment. |
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