For at least two decades the most commonly used diagnostic tests have been antigen tests. All currently available antigen tests (ELISA, Immunochromatographic and Hemagglutination) are designed to detect heartworm antigen circulating in the blood.
What type of test is used to detect heartworms in a dog?
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.
What is the test for heartworms?
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 a heartworm test an Elisa test?
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.
What is a Knott's test?
Lab Section. Clinical Pathology. Test Description. Test for the presence of heartworm microfilaria in blood.
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