There are thought to be a number of factors involved in causing atopic dermatitis.
The fact that atopic dermatitis often appears at a young age suggests that some dogs have an inherited, genetic predisposition to the disease. Genetic factors are also thought to be important in predisposing certain breeds of dog to develop the disease. West Highland White Terriers, Bull Terriers, Boxers, Dalmatians and Retrievers are all thought to be at higher risk.
It is thought that atopic dermatitis occurs in most dogs when their immune cells react to allergens in the environment, such as:
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House dust mites
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Pollen
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Mould
and, possibly:
Secondary skin infections, with organisms such as Staphylococcus and Malassezia are common in dogs with atopic dermatitis. These are believed to worsen symptoms and contribute to the level of itch.
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