Title
The use of intradermal skin testing and hyposensitization injections to control seasonal dermatitis in greater one-horned rhinoceroses (Rhinoceros unicornis)
Author(s)
Sarah B. Chaney; Melissa Loewinger; Donna Doherty; Colleen M. McCann; Kenneth J. Conley; Denise McAloose; Andrew Rosenberg; John M. Sykes IV
Published
2022
Publisher
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine
Abstract
Allergic dermatitis was diagnosed in a 25-yr-old female greater one-horned rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) and her 6-yr-old female offspring by skin biopsy, intradermal skin testing (IDST), and allergen-specific serum IgE testing. Dam and offspring presented with seasonal, erosive, and ulcerative dermatitis affecting the face, legs, and trunk starting at 6 and 2 yr of age, respectively. IDST was performed at the caudal pinnal base using 61 regionally specific allergens. Specific serum allergen responses were detected using Heska's Equine ALLERCEPT® Allergen Panel. Histopathology of the lesions was consistent with an allergic etiology. Injectable allergen-specific immunotherapy was initiated in both animals and within 6 to 18 mon after commencing hyposensitization clinical improvement was noted. This report documents a repeatable methodology for IDST and serological allergen testing for use in rhinoceroses. The hyposensitization protocol detailed here can help guide future treatment protocols.
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PUB35604