Final answer:
Canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) is an allergic skin disorder in dogs, not an autoimmune disease. It involves an immediate hypersensitivity reaction to environmental allergens such as pollen. Management typically includes medications like antihistamines, corticosteroids, or immunosuppressants.
Step-by-step explanation:
Canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) is an allergic skin disorder found in dogs. This condition is akin to eczema in humans, where the dog exhibits an allergic reaction to environmental substances like pollen, dust mites, mold, and certain foods. cAD can often result in itchy, dry, and inflamed skin, which can become severe without proper treatment. Contrary to an autoimmune disease, which involves the immune system attacking the body's own tissues, allergies are caused by hypersensitivity reactions to harmless substances, where the immune system overreacts to an allergen.
An allergic reaction to pollen is classified as an immediate hypersensitivity reaction, which means it occurs quickly after exposure to the allergen. Unlike acquired autoimmunity, which can sometimes be triggered by factors like molecular mimicry or radiation exposure, allergies such as cAD are not due to the immune system mistaking body tissue for a foreign antigen.
Management of cAD often includes medications such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, or immunosuppressants to alleviate the symptoms and provide relief for the affected dog.