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Canis Familiaris (553)

This article discusses clinical trials investigating the use of Canis Familiaris (553), a dog hair allergen extract, in allergy testing. While the primary focus of these trials is on birch and grass pollen allergies, Canis Familiaris (553) is being used as a comparative allergen in skin prick tests. These studies aim to assess the effectiveness and safety of sublingual immunotherapy for patients with moderate to severe allergic rhinitis or rhinoconjunctivitis.

Table of Contents

What is CANIS FAMILIARIS (553)?

CANIS FAMILIARIS (553) is the active substance in a medical product called “ALK-prick SQ 553 Hundehaare 10 HEP Lösung für den Pricktest”. In simple terms, this is a solution used for skin prick tests to diagnose dog hair allergies[1]. The term “CANIS FAMILIARIS” is the scientific name for domestic dogs, and “553” is likely a specific identifier for this allergen extract.

This product is also known by its synonym “553 dog hair”, which makes it clear that it contains allergens from dog hair[1].

Medical Uses

The primary use of CANIS FAMILIARIS (553) is for diagnostic purposes, specifically to test for allergies to dog hair. It falls under the category of tests for allergic diseases[1]. While this specific product is not a treatment, it plays a crucial role in diagnosing allergies, which is the first step in managing allergic conditions.

Allergies, including those to dog hair, can cause various symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and in some cases, asthma. Proper diagnosis is essential for effective management and treatment of these conditions.

How It’s Administered

CANIS FAMILIARIS (553) is administered as a solution for skin-prick test[1]. In a skin prick test, a small amount of the allergen solution is placed on the skin, usually on the forearm or back. The skin is then gently pricked to allow the solution to enter the outer layer of skin. If a person is allergic to dog hair, a small, itchy bump (like a mosquito bite) will appear at the site within about 15-20 minutes.

Dosage

The maximum daily dose and maximum total dose for this product is 1 drop (Gtt)[1]. This is because the test typically only needs to be performed once to diagnose an allergy. The treatment period is listed as 1 day, indicating that the test is a one-time procedure[1].

Who Can Use It?

While the specific product information doesn’t detail who can use this test, skin prick tests are generally safe for most people, including children and adults. However, there are some exceptions:

  • People with severe allergies or a history of anaphylaxis may need special precautions
  • Those with certain skin conditions might not be suitable candidates for skin prick tests
  • People taking certain medications, particularly antihistamines, may need to temporarily stop these medications before the test

Precautions and Contraindications

While the product information doesn’t list specific contraindications for CANIS FAMILIARIS (553), it’s important to note that skin prick tests should be performed under medical supervision. Some general precautions for skin prick tests include:

  • Informing your doctor about any medications you’re taking
  • Letting your doctor know if you have any skin conditions or are pregnant
  • Being prepared to stay at the doctor’s office for a short while after the test in case of any allergic reactions

It’s crucial to remember that while this product is used for diagnosing dog hair allergies, it is not a treatment for allergies. If you’re diagnosed with a dog hair allergy, your doctor will discuss appropriate management strategies, which may include avoiding exposure, medications, or in some cases, immunotherapy.

Aspect Details
Study Type Phase II-III clinical trials
Primary Allergens Birch pollen (Betula verrucosa), Grass pollen (Phleum pratense)
Comparative Allergen Canis Familiaris (553) – dog hair allergen
Treatment Sublingual immunotherapy
Primary Endpoint Differences in Combined Symptom and Medication Score (CSMS) during peak pollen periods
Key Inclusion Criteria Adults 18-65 years, moderate to severe allergic rhinitis/rhinoconjunctivitis, specific sensitization to study allergens
Key Exclusion Criteria Previous immunotherapy within 5 years, severe asthma, immune system disorders
Safety Assessments Monitoring of adverse reactions, lung function tests (FEV1)

FAQ

  • What is Canis Familiaris (553)? Canis Familiaris (553) is a dog hair allergen extract used in skin prick tests for allergy diagnosis. It's part of a solution called ALK-prick SQ 553 Hundehaare, which is applied to the skin to test for allergic reactions to dog hair.
  • How is Canis Familiaris (553) used in these clinical trials? In these trials, Canis Familiaris (553) is used as a comparative allergen in skin prick tests. While the main focus is on birch and grass pollen allergies, dog hair allergen is included to assess patients' overall allergy profiles and to ensure they don't have stronger reactions to other allergens that could interfere with the study.
  • What are the main objectives of these clinical trials? The main objectives are to assess the efficacy and safety of sublingual immunotherapy for patients with birch or grass pollen allergies. The trials aim to determine the most effective and best-tolerated dose of the treatment in terms of benefit-risk balance and symptom reduction.
  • Who can participate in these clinical trials? Participants must be between 18 and 65 years old, have moderate to severe allergic rhinitis or rhinoconjunctivitis due to birch or grass pollen for at least two years, and meet specific criteria for allergy sensitization. They must not have had previous immunotherapy for the relevant allergens within the last 5 years.
  • How is the effectiveness of the treatment measured? The primary measure of effectiveness is the Combined Symptom and Medication Score (CSMS) during peak pollen periods. Secondary measures include quality of life assessments, symptom-free days, and changes in response to nasal provocation tests.

Ongoing Clinical Trials on Canis Familiaris (553)

  • Evaluation of Alutard SQ dog allergen immunotherapy in patients with allergic rhinitis due to dog allergy – A one-year study in Swedish practice

    Not yet recruiting

    3 1 1 1
    Investigated diseases:
    Investigated drugs:
    Sweden

  • Study on the Effectiveness and Safety of Phleum Pratense Pollen Extract for Patients with Moderate-to-Severe Grass Pollen Allergy

    Not recruiting

    4 1 1
    Investigated diseases:
    Investigated drugs:
    Germany

  • Study on the Effectiveness and Safety of Sublingual Immunotherapy with Betula Pendula Pollen Extract for Patients with Birch Pollen Allergy

    Not recruiting

    4 1 1
    Investigated diseases:
    Investigated drugs:
    Germany

Glossary

  • Allergic rhinitis: An allergic reaction affecting the nose, causing symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion in response to allergens like pollen or pet dander.
  • Rhinoconjunctivitis: A combination of allergic symptoms affecting both the nose (rhinitis) and eyes (conjunctivitis), typically causing sneezing, itching, and watery eyes.
  • Sublingual immunotherapy: A treatment for allergies where small doses of an allergen are placed under the tongue to help the body build tolerance over time.
  • Skin prick test: A method of allergy testing where small amounts of potential allergens are placed on the skin, which is then lightly pricked to allow the substance to enter the skin surface. A positive reaction appears as a small, raised bump.
  • Combined Symptom and Medication Score (CSMS): A measure used in allergy studies that combines the severity of allergy symptoms with the amount of medication needed to control those symptoms.
  • Nasal provocation test: A diagnostic procedure where an allergen is applied directly to the nasal mucosa to assess the allergic response and confirm a specific allergy.
  • FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second): A measure of lung function that represents the amount of air a person can forcefully exhale in one second.
  • IgE (Immunoglobulin E): An antibody that plays a crucial role in allergic reactions. High levels of specific IgE can indicate an allergy to a particular substance.

References

  1. http://clinicaltrials.eu/trial/study-on-the-effectiveness-and-safety-of-sublingual-immunotherapy-with-betula-pendula-pollen-extract-for-patients-with-birch-pollen-allergy/