D507 - Feline heartworm

Description:

Feline heartworm disease is a recognized clinical problem in cats worldwide and is increasing in importance. Dirofilaria immitis, the causative agent of heartworm disease in cats is the same agent responsible for heartworm disease in cats. The variety of clinical signs attributed to heartworm infection in the cat and difficulties in diagnosing infection have resulted in a disease which heretofore has been considered a medical curiosity. However, the geographical distribution of heartworm disease in domestic cats is the same as that of dogs, but at lower prevalence rate. A survey conducted in USA of heartworm-infected cats demonstrated a prevalence of 4% to 10% in the shelter cat population. The incidence of disease in cats may be as high as 15% in endemic areas. Heartworm disease may be acute or chronic in the cat. Acute signs may be associated with pulmonary or central nervous system disease. More commonly, clinical signs associated with disease are dyspnea, coughing, vomiting, lethargy and anorexia.

Diagnosis:

The ELISA test (detecting feline antibodies to adult heartworm antigen) shows promise and initial concerns related to false positives from cross-reactivity have not been detected. In preliminary studies, the ELISA test detected infection in 96.7% of experimentally infected cats with known, necropsy-verified heartworm infection status at 145-170 days post-infection. The test detected 100% of cats with heartworms in the heart at six months or more post-infection. A negative result on the antibody assay indicates the cat has not been infected or the cat is harbouring an infection that is less than 50-60 days old. Cats with a negative test result and persistent clinical signs suggestive of feline heartworm disease are recommended for retesting in 2 to 3 months. The positive ELISA result indicates the cat was infected with D. immitis at least 50-60 days old.

Sample:

Whole blood (3 ml) in a lavender top (EDTA) tube.

Special Handling:

Whole blood (2 ml) in a lavender top (EDTA) tube.

Test Code:

D507