How is feline infectious peritonitis diagnosed?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Diagnosis Methods for Feline Infectious Peritonitis
3. Laboratory Tests
4. Evaluation of Clinical Signs
5. Imaging Techniques
6. QL Biotech Company Solutions
7. References

Introduction

Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a complex and often fatal viral disease affecting cats, caused by a mutated strain of feline coronavirus. Diagnosing FIP is challenging due to its varied presentation and similarity to other diseases. This article elucidates the methods employed in diagnosing FIP, highlighting both traditional and advanced techniques, and introduces solutions provided by QL Biotech.

Diagnosis Methods for Feline Infectious Peritonitis

Diagnosis of FIP encompasses a combination of clinical evaluations, laboratory tests, and imaging techniques. No single test confirms the disease; rather, a multifaceted approach is utilized.

Laboratory Tests

• Serum Chemistry and Hematology: FIP is associated with hyperglobulinemia and hypoalbuminemia. A serum protein electrophoresis can reveal a gamma-globulin peak.
• Rivalta Test: A simple test to differentiate effusions; a positive test suggests FIP but is not definitive.
• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): PCR targeting the FCoV genome offers specificity; however, distinguishing between the harmless enteric form and the mutated FIP virus remains complex.

Evaluation of Clinical Signs

FIP symptoms vary between the dry (non-effusive) and wet (effusive) forms. Common signs include fever unresponsive to antibiotics, weight loss, and a fluctuating appetite. Fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites) or chest (pleural effusion) is typical of the wet form, while granulomas may form in organs in the dry form.

Imaging Techniques

• Ultrasound and Radiographs: Imaging helps visualize fluid accumulation and organ changes such as granulomas or lymphadenopathy. Ultrasound is particularly useful in assessing abdominal changes quantitatively.
• Computed Tomography (CT): Provides detailed cross-sectional images, aiding in the identification of organ involvement.

QL Biotech Company Solutions

QL Biotech has developed molecular diagnostics to aid in the presumptive diagnosis of FIP. Their solutions harness the power of advanced PCR techniques with enhanced specificity for detecting viruses associated with FIP.

• Targeted PCR Assays: These assays utilize proprietary primers to increase the detection accuracy of the FIP virus.
• Comprehensive Virological Panels: Allows simultaneous screening for common co-infections, providing a broader diagnostic context.

References

1. Pedersen NC. (2014) An update on feline infectious peritonitis: diagnostics and prognosis. Can Vet J. 55(10):979-984.
2. Tasker S. (2018) Diagnosis of feline infectious peritonitis: Update on current and emerging methodologies. Vet Med Sci. 4(4):293-300.
3. QL Biotech: Innovations in Veterinary Diagnostics. (2023) QL Biotech White Paper.