#1
January 23rd, 2016, 07:24 PM
| |||
| |||
How Does A Snap Test Detect Heartworm
Hello sir, I am Ricky. I am from California. Can you help me by providing me information regarding How Does A Snap Test Detect Heartworm and give details about it?
|
#2
January 23rd, 2016, 07:25 PM
| |||
| |||
Re: How Does A Snap Test Detect Heartworm
Heartworm testing is performed to determine if a pet is infected with heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis). Many veterinarians use a popular test called a “SNAP” test, which can be run in just a few minutes at your veterinarian’s office. Sometimes, additional testing is performed to gain more information about the extent of heartworm infection for a particular patient. Heartworm testing is recommended for most dogs before beginning a heartworm preventive program. Periodic testing is also recommended for dogs already on heartworm preventive medication. Testing blood for microfilariae: Using a small blood sample, your veterinarian can detect heartworm microfilariae in your dog’s blood. Antigen testing: “Antigens” are proteins that the body can recognize as belonging to a foreign organism. By identifying certain antigens that are found in adult female heartworms, researchers have developed tests that can detect these antigens to tell if a dog is infected with adult heartworms. Many veterinarians use a rapid-result test called a “SNAP” test to diagnose heartworm disease in dogs. The SNAP test is very accurate, can be performed in your veterinarian’s office using a very small amount of blood, and takes only a few minutes to complete. There is even a combination SNAP test that can detect heartworm disease as well as three tick-associated diseases (Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis) at the same time. If your veterinarian obtains a questionable result on the SNAP test, additional testing may be recommended. Over time, heartworms can start to cause damage to the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels. If this damage has occurred, your veterinarian may recommend additional testing to determine the extent of your dog’s illness. Additional tests may include radiographs (x-rays) to check your dog’s heart and lungs for evidence of damage; ultrasound studies to check for specific injuries to the heart; and additional blood work to check the liver, kidneys, and other major body systems for evidence of damage. |
|