Quantitative analysis of the Tritrichomonas burden fetus responsible for digestive disorders in kittens.
Tritrichomonas fetus is a flagellated protozoan, responsible for chronic diarrhea of the large intestine. Co-infections are possible with Giardia, with which it is easily confused under microscopy.
Test indications
- Diagnostic feline trichomoniasis during digestive disorders.
- Evaluation of excretory status in asymptomatic cats.
- Treatment monitoring (evolution of excreted load).
Test characteristics
- Real-time RT-PCR
- Detection threshold
- Quantitative load analysis
Samples to be taken
- Ecouvillon rectal (dry swab without transport medium).
Given the intermittent nature of excretion, particularly in asymptomatic cats and therefore the risk of a false negative on a single sample, to establish a diagnosis, we recommend:
- Or, at least 3 consecutive analyzes (if the first two are negative) on samples taken 1 week apart.
- Be one only analysis carried out on a pool rectal swabs taken every two days over 5 to 10 days (i.e. 3 to 5 swabs) and stored in the refrigerator (grouped sending of swabs). This option increases the chances of sampling during an excretion phase.
Interpretation of the result
- Negative result: Absence of the protozoan or quantity below the detection threshold. A negative result does not exclude the carriage of Tritrichomonas fetus, as rectal excretion is intermittent. Consequently, several consecutive tests or a single test on a mixture of samples taken a few days apart are necessary in order to confirm the absence of Tritrichomonas fetus (see recommended protocol above).
- Positive result : Presence of the protozoan in the sample. Positive results must be interpreted in the epidemiological-clinical context and according to the load detected and the duration of development. The PCR test being quantitative, it is interesting in monitoring treatment, in order to evaluate its effectiveness (reduction in the excreted load).
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