Depending on prevalence, the positive predictive value of the heartworm antigen test ranged from 15 to 54% and negative predictive value from 99 to 99.9%. For a hospital testing 1,000 dogs per year, false-positive test results may vary from 24 to 27 dogs.
Will heartworms show up in blood work?
A veterinarian uses blood tests to check a dog for heartworms. An antigen test detects specific heartworm proteins, called antigens, which are released by adult female heartworms into the dog's bloodstream. In most cases, antigen tests can accurately detect infections with one or more adult female heartworms.
Is it possible to get a false positive heartworm test?
Heartworm Positive Do not give your dog any heartworm preventive medication if today's test was positive. False positive tests occasionally occur, so it is important that you consult your veterinarian for follow-up advice. A second test will probably be done.
Can a dog have a false negative heartworm test?
False-negative antigen tests occur most often in heartworm-infected animals when the host immune response traps circulating D immitis antigen in antigen—antibody complexes, preventing it from reacting with commercial assays.
What type of test is most commonly used to detect heartworm?
Technicians in the serology section use the ELISA test to detect antigens that are associated with pregnant female heartworms. A positive result indicates adult female heartworms are present. This is the primary testing method used to detect heartworms.
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