ABSTRACT
Microsporum spp., Encephalitozoon cuniculi (unlikely – immunosupressed individuals potentially at risk), rabies virus (not UK), Franciscella tularensis (not UK), lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (unlikely), Pasteurella multocida (unlikely), Haemodipsus ventricosus (vector for tularaemia), Pneumocystis carinii (immunosuppressed individuals only at risk), Salmonella spp., Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, Leptospira spp. (unlikely but the author has diagnosed one case in a rabbit), Giardia spp. (uncommon). b Allergy to rabbits. It is estimated that 11-15% of owners and vets are allergic to rabbits and/or rodents. Dander and aerosolized urine proteins are the suspected antigens. Reactions include runny eyes and nose, coughing, wheezing and skin lesions such as urticaria and eczema, and this can develop into serious anaphylaxis. Hypersensitivity can develop over weeks and years and is more likely if other allergies exist and if familial predisposition exists. Different type of allergic reactions are involved. Type I (immediate) hypersensitivity is initiated by interaction of mast cells and basophils and release of chemical mediators such as histamine, serotonin and heparin. These act as messengers that target eosinophils, platelets, monocytes and Tlymphocytes. The final reaction is smooth muscle contraction, vascular dilatation and increased vascular permeability. Type IV hypersensitivity (cell-mediated allergic reaction) is caused by antigens reacting with sensitized T-lymphocytes (e.g. allergic contact dermatitis).
