Microfilaria – PCR (qualitative)

EDTA blood

realtime PCR (semi-quantitative); PCR (ferret)

1 - 3 days

• Accumulation of the microfilariae of Dirofilaria immitis in the peripheral blood takes place in the evenings (adaptation to the piercing behaviour of vector mosquitoes). This behaviour has not yet been documented for other filarial species, but it is advisable to possibly take the blood sample in the evening hours.
• Before departing to South Africa, it is mandatory to do a filtration test.
• In case of a positive PCR result, differentiation of the filarial species can be done on request and is recommended in order to initiate treatment adapted to the type of filaria.
• Dog: Quantitative PCR is used for dose adjustment (in case of high pathogen loads, reduction of dose to reduce the risk of thromboembolism) and, as therapy monitoring, to exclude resistances.