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Fecal Dx antigen testing

Interpreting test results and next steps.

Wellness screening

Whether a positive or negative result, this algorithm can guide next steps based on your patient's Fecal Dx antigen testing results.

Use this algorithm

Sick visits

Testing recommendations vary based on the duration and severity of diarrhea and the health and dietary habits of the pet or pets affected.

Use this algorithm

Interpreting results for “healthy” dogs and cats.

The following algorithm can help guide your next steps when considering your patient's Fecal Dx antigen testing results.

What to do next?
Convey
Retest
Antigen-positive results
Treat with appropriate dewormer or use monthly parasite control product effective for this parasite.
Review risk factors and proper disposal of feces.
Retesting a healthy dog who is on a broad-spectrum monthly control product is not necessary.

If a follow-up test is preferred, retest by antigen testing and fecal O&P testing 10–14 days after deworming.
Communicate the success of current preventive measures.

Review possible risks and reinforce year-round protection.
CAPC recommendations: Fecal examinations at least 2 times per year.
Administer year-round, broad-spectrum parasite control with efficacy against heartworm, intestinal parasites, fleas, and ticks.
Antigen-negative results

Algorithm for fecal screening sick dogs and cats.

Use the following algorithm to rule out infectious diseases by differentiating between simple and complicated diarrhea and testing accordingly.

Negative
Positive
If poor response to therapy, evaluate for coinfections
Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis (HGE)/Bloody Diarrhea RealPCR Panel with Fecal Dx Profile
Non-bloody diarrhea
Bloody diarrhea
If negative or if diarrhea persists despite targeted therapy, evaluate for primary or concurrent noninfectious causes. Consider:
  • Dietary trials (high fiber or novel protein/hypoallergenic)
  • Cobalamin (vitman B12), folate, TLI, Spec cPL Test
  • Abdominal ultrasound
  • Endoscopic or surgical intestinal biopsies
Diarrhea RealPCR Panel (Comprehensive) with Fecal Dx Profile
SNAP Parvo Test
Complicated diarrhea
  • Clinically sick pet (lethargy, inappetance)
  • Severe or hemorrhagic diarrhea
  • Recurrent or persistant diarrhea
  • Multiple animals affected
Positive on antigen ELISA testing or fecal O&P testing
Treat with targeted therapy
Trial treatment with broad-spectrum dewormer
Negative on both
If diarrhea persists > 24 hours
Fecal Dx Profile with Giardia
Diarrhea RealPCR Panel (Comprehensive)
Simple diarrhea
  • Otherwise clinically healthy and bright, alert, and responsive (BAR)
  • Mild diarrhea < 24 hours in duration
  • Only one pet affected
  • May have history of dietary indiscretion or recent diet change
History, clinical signs, physical examination
  • Collect fecal speciments prior to treatment.
  • Obtain minimum database (complete blood count [CBC], chemistry panel with IDEXX SDMA Test, and complete urinalysis) as appropriate.
  • Begin supportive therapy as indicated while waiting for diagnostic results.
Pet with diarrhea