A pilot study of total and allergen-specific IgE serum levels during anestrous, estrous and pregnancy in healthy female dogs.

Abstract

Allergen-specific IgE serology is used for the determination of sensitization status in dogs with atopic dermatitis; the influence of the female reproductive cycle on the results of such methods has not been studied in dogs. To compare the total and allergen-specific IgE of healthy bitches during anestrous, estrous and pregnancy. Eight privately owned, healthy bitches. Total and allergen-specific IgE levels were determined in eight bitches at three different time-points of their reproductive cycle: anestrous, estrous and pregnancy. Total IgE was significantly decreased (median: 74%) in female dogs during pregnancy when compared to anestrous. In 14 of 216 (6%), allergen-specific IgE test results were variably positive and negative at different stages of the reproductive cycle. This variation, however, was not related to changes in total serum IgE levels. Total IgE serum levels are reduced during pregnancy in female dogs. However, results of one allergen-specific IgE test did not appear to be markedly altered by the reproductive cycle in healthy bitches.