Update on equine allergies.

This research article provides an updated overview on equine allergies, discussing their types, causes, and potential treatments, with a particular focus on insect hypersensitivity. It also covers new findings concerning allergy pathogenesis and how human and dog allergies might relate to those found in horses.

Allergy Types in Horses

• The article explores various types of disorders in horses that are associated with allergy. These include pruritic skin diseases (itchy skin disorders), recurrent urticaria (frequent hives), allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (allergy-related inflammation of the conjunctiva and nasal mucosa), and reactive airway disease (a group of conditions that narrows the tubes in the lungs).

Allergen-specific IgE and Immunotherapy

• The study confirms the presence of allergen-specific IgE antibodies (antibodies that react specifically to certain allergens, facilitating an allergic reaction) in these horses.
• Allergen-specific immunotherapy (a treatment for allergies that involves introducing the body to small amounts of the allergen to develop immunity) is used to reduce clinical signs of the allergic reaction.

Insect Hypersensitivity

• The article takes special attention to insect hypersensitivity, which is the most understood atopic disease in horses. Atopy is the genetic tendency to develop allergic diseases. However, finding an effective treatment for this specific allergy with allergen-specific immunotherapy remains a challenge.

Updates on Allergy Pathogenesis and Relation to Human and Dog Allergies

• The article provides a brief overview of new information regarding the development and progression of allergies.
• It also draws a comparison between equine allergies and those found in humans and dogs, suggesting potential similarities that may aid in further understanding and managing the allergic reactions in horses.