Recurrent episodes of oral mite anaphylaxis in a dog

Objective

To describe the clinical presentation and response to management of a dog with presumed oral mite anaphylaxis.

Case Summary

A 2-year-old male intact Golden Retriever was evaluated for a history of recurrent anaphylactic episodes. Over a period of 19 months, the dog had a total of 8 anaphylactic episodes that occurred in 2 different residences within the same state. The episodes most commonly resulted in vomiting and labored breathing, but the dog developed ascites, hypotension, and gall bladder wall edema during the most severe episodes. Serological testing demonstrated high immunoglobulin E levels to storage mites (SMs), specifically Tyrophagus SM. The dog's kibble was transitioned to being stored in small quantities in airtight containers in the freezer. At the time of publication, the dog has not had an anaphylactic reaction since making this change 1 year ago.

New or Unique Information Provided

Based on a literature search and to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first time that SMs have been associated with severe recurrent anaphylaxis in a dog.