DERMATOLOGY
barrier and helps to control the inflammatory process
and secondary skin infections.
There are a variety of shampoos available that may be
used in the management of an allergic skin disease:
Shampoos with an antipruritic effect can improve the
condition of allergic dogs, especially when they are
used frequently (e.g. twice a week, at least initially).
The most widely recommended topical antipruritic
agent is colloidal oatmeal. It has both emollient (softens, lubricates, soothes) and hydroscopic (incorporated into the stratum corneum and attracts water)
activities and has a direct anti-inflammatory and antipruritic action.
The exact mechanism is not clear.
• Antibacterial and antifungal shampoos e.g. chlorhexidine may be used to control secondary bacterial and /or yeast infections.
• Keratomodulating shampoos are indicated in cases with allergy induced keratoseborrhoea.
• Cleansing, non-irritating shampoos, fatty acid
shampoos and ceramide containing shampoos
may be used to restore the epidermal barrier.
• A shampoo specifically designed for canine atopic dermatitis has been recently developed
(Allermyl®). It was designed to restore cutaneous integrity, maintain epidermal barrier function,
control aggravating microbial proliferation, and
limit immune and inflammatory reactions. It contains linoleic acid, gamma-linolenic acid, mono
and oligosaccharides, vitamin E, and piroctone
olamine.
5. Parasitic skin disorders
Antiparasitic shampoos, e.g. containing organochlorins, natural pyrethrins or synthetic pyrethrins, are not
considered to be as efficacious as antiparasitic rinses
and dips and other formulations (sprays, spot-ons),
mainly because they are rinsed and cannot act during
a sufficient time. Their main use is for quick removal
of fleas in puppies, kittens and debilitated animals.
Colloidal oatmeal can be used to decrease inflammation and pruritus due to parasitic infestation. Benzoyl
peroxide shampoos are recommended in the treatment of demodicosis because of their degreasing and
follicular flushing effect. Many parasitic diseases such
as scabies, cheyletiellosis and flea allergic dermatitis
can cause a keratoseborrheic disorder and affected
animals will benefit from application of keratomodulating shampoos.
6. Dry sensitive skin
Dry skin results from increased water loss through the
skin. It occurs in many skin conditions, such as allergies, with excessive use of corticosteroids or due to
treatment with inappropriate shampoos.
Water by itself has a strong hydrating effect if used
properly. A contact time of 10 – 15 minutes should be
allowed to properly hydrate the stratum corneum. If
the contact time is too short or baths are given too
frequently, the skin will dry further by evaporation of
water.
Emollients are used to cover the surface of the skin,
thus decrea