El immune system is crucial in both humans and our canine friends. Its main function is to protect the body against invasive organisms or substances that can cause disease. However, a malfunction of the immune system can cause it to start attacking the body's own cells, giving rise to so-called immune defenses. autoimmune diseasesThese pathologies can be serious and compromise the dog's quality of life, so it is vital to know their causes, symptoms and the treatments available to manage them.
What are autoimmune diseases in dogs?
The autoimmune diseases In dogs, these occur when the immune system, instead of defending the body against pathogens, begins to attack its own tissues and cells. This phenomenon is due to the production of autoantibodies, which mistakenly identify healthy cells as a threat. Different parts of the body can be affected, which can lead to a variety of health problems, including skin, digestive, neurological, and liver disorders, among others.
Types of autoimmune diseases
There are several types of autoimmune diseases that can affect dogs, depending on the organ or body system that is affected:
- Autoimmune dermatitis: This condition affects the skin and can manifest as rashes, hair loss and itching.
- Autoimmune hemolytic anemia: The immune system destroys red blood cells, leading to fatigue, weakness and, in more severe cases, severe breathing difficulties.
- Autoimmune arthritis: Joint inflammation causes pain and difficulty in movement.
- Autoimmune thyroiditis: The glands that produce thyroid hormones are attacked, which can result in hypothyroidism and weight gain.
- Systemic lupus erythematosus: One of the most common autoimmune diseases in canines. It affects organs such as the kidneys, skin and joints.
- Addison's disease: It affects the adrenal glands, preventing them from producing crucial hormones such as cortisol.
- Pemphigus foliaceus: Autoimmune skin disease that causes pustules and scabs to appear all over the body.
What causes autoimmune diseases in dogs?
The exact cause of autoimmune diseases in dogs is currently unknown. However, certain genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role. Here are some of the most widely accepted causes:
- Genetic predisposition: Some dog breeds, such as the Akita, the Doberman or the Chow Chow, are more susceptible to developing autoimmune diseases due to their genetic inheritance.
- Exposure to infections: A pathogen can confuse the immune system, leading to an inappropriate response that ends up attacking the dog's own cells.
- Environmental stressors: Exposure to chemicals, pollen, or even certain foods can trigger improper activation of the immune system, especially in dogs with a genetic predisposition.
- Vaccines: Although rare, some studies indicate that certain components of vaccines can trigger autoimmune reactions, especially in predisposed dogs.
- Medication: Some prolonged drug treatments can alter the functioning of the immune system.
Common symptoms of autoimmune diseases in dogs
The symptom of autoimmune diseases can vary greatly depending on the organ or system affected. However, these are some of the most common signs that can alert owners to a potential problem:
- Persistent diarrhea: Often accompanied by traces of blood and difficulty in defecation.
- Weight loss and muscle mass: Affected dogs may lose weight rapidly and may also have difficulty walking or moving due to muscle weakness.
- Lethargy and lack of energy: Dogs may appear tired, unwilling to play or participate in activities they once enjoyed.
- Ulcers in different parts of the body: Affected areas include the ears, paws, nose and mouth.
- Recurrent infections: A weakened immune system can lead to frequent infections in the skin or other parts of the body.
- Relapsing fever: Some dogs may experience increases in temperature without the presence of visible infections.
- Skin problems: The skin may show signs of rashes, hair loss, extreme itching, and in severe cases, ulcerations.
- Strong body odor: In some cases, affected dogs may develop a strong, unpleasant odor.
Diagnosing autoimmune diseases in dogs
Diagnosing autoimmune disease in dogs can be a complicated process due to the varied nature of symptoms. However, there are several tests that veterinarians can perform to get a clear diagnosis:
- Physical exam: Your veterinarian will carefully check your dog for physical signs, such as skin sores, weight loss, and lethargy.
- Blood test: A detailed analysis of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets may show signs of hemolytic anemia or other deficiencies in the functioning of the immune system.
- Biopsies: Samples of affected tissues, such as skin or joints, can help identify abnormal cells or inflammation caused by autoimmune activity.
- X-rays and ultrasounds: They help detect possible damage to internal organs, such as the heart or kidneys, as a result of some autoimmune disease.
- Serological tests: These tests detect the presence of specific antibodies that attack the body's own cells.
Treatment of autoimmune diseases in dogs
Treating autoimmune diseases in dogs is a long and meticulous process that depends on the severity of the symptoms and the system affected. Below are some of the most common treatments:
1. Immunosuppressive drugs
The immunosuppressive medications They are an essential part of the treatment of any autoimmune disease, as they help reduce the excessive activity of the immune system that is attacking the body itself. Some of the most commonly used include:
- Prednisone: A corticosteroid that helps control inflammation and reduce autoimmune activity. Doses are adjusted based on the dog's response.
- Azathioprine: This drug is used in more severe cases to suppress the action of the immune system. It is accompanied by prednisone in some cases.
- Methotrexate: Less common, but useful in refractory cases or when other treatments do not work adequately.
- Cyclosporine: It is used when prednisone doses need to be reduced to avoid prolonged side effects.
2. Additional treatments
- Anti-inflammatories: They are administered to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in affected joints, such as in autoimmune arthritis.
- Intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIg): They are used in severe cases to modulate the immune response.
- Nutritional supplements: Omega-3 fatty acid and antioxidant supplements may help reduce inflammation and improve coat quality in dogs with autoimmune skin diseases.
3. Long-term care
Dogs with autoimmune diseases require a long-term care plan. It is essential to establish a regular veterinary visit regimen to monitor the progress of treatment and adjust medication doses as necessary. In addition, it is critical to observe any change in behavior or symptoms of the dog, as they may indicate a relapse or the appearance of new symptoms. Depending on the disease, regular blood, urine and other diagnostic tests may also be necessary.
Food and special care
A suitable eating is key for dogs diagnosed with autoimmune diseases. Dogs with these conditions may benefit from the following dietary guidelines:
- Hypoallergenic diets: Foods that reduce allergic reactions can help maintain immune system health.
- Vitamin E Supplements: They help protect cell membranes against oxidative damage.
- Foods with Omega-3: These fatty acids also act as immune modulators and are recommended to combat inflammation.
- Wet or cooked food: In cases where the digestive system is affected, soft foods such as cooked chicken or pumpkin may be recommended to avoid irritation.
Strategies to improve the quality of life of the dog
In addition to regular veterinary care, there are complementary strategies that can improve the quality of life of a dog diagnosed with an autoimmune disease:
- Moderate exercise: Daily exercise can help maintain muscle tone and prevent weight gain.
- Reduce stress: Maintaining a calm and relaxed environment is essential since stress can aggravate symptoms.
- Hygiene and dermatological care: For skin conditions, using special skin care products, such as medicated shampoo or lotions, may provide relief.
- Suitable rest areas: A comfortable, well-ventilated area is essential to avoid further complications.
It is crucial for pet owners to stay informed and work closely with their veterinarian to implement all necessary measures to ensure their dog receives the best care possible.
I need help. I live in Oaxaca and I adopted a dog because her owners no longer wanted her because she was sick. But I am confident that he will be able to recover. The brave name, she is about five months old, she is weak, she has an infection, her eyes, you cannot walk, she is very weak. It hardly moves. It is my second day with her and I took her to the vet but I would like another opinion. Eat well and drink lots of water.
It has a cure for these autoimmune diseases, what does it depend on?
I lost my dog to this disease, which, according to what they told me, was already with her and woke up from a tick bite, because the blood test gave a positive erlyca and I struggled to get out but I couldn't, it was very complicated, it had rebounded and raised the blood cells. red and decayed again. I am devastated, if it detects in time they can be saved or this is something that has no return, it can wake up of course, tell me please.