Clinical Immunology

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The Clinical Immunology laboratory of KSVDL provides high quality services to practicing veterinarians, the Veterinary Health Center, researchers and industry. This is an AAVLD accredited laboratory.

Tests

If you do not find a specific test listed, please contact Client Services at (785) 532-5650, toll free at 1-866-512-5650 or clientcare@vet.k-state.edu for special testing submission and fees.

 

Anti-Nuclear Antibody (ANA)

Dilutions of patient serum are tested for antibodies to nuclear substances 1:80 through 1:640. We have noted ANA titers of 1:80 and 1:160 in healthy dogs and in dogs with inflammatory conditions. Positive ANA titers should be considered when the titer is >1:160. Interpretation of a positive ANA as diagnostic of SLE should always accompany specific clinical criteria for SLE because some dogs can have positive ANA titers without disease or with inflammatory conditions (Compendium, 1999:21:135 and 402).

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Rheumatoid Factor Assay (RF)

We use a latex agglutination slide test to detect canine rheumatoid factor in serum (antibody to canine IgG). A definitive diagnosis of canine rheumatoid arthritis should be made by meeting 5/11 criteria established by the American Rheumatoid Association. (Berkow et al, Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy, thirteenth edition, Rahaw, N.J.).

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