Clinical Immunology
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
- Anti-Nuclear Antibody (ANA)
- Immunoglobulin Quantitation Panel (IgM and IgG)
- Quantitation of IgM by Radial Immunodiffusion
- Rheumatoid Factor Assay (RF)
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).
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.).