Frequently asked questions for the QuickVet® Canine Fibrinogen™ test
What is Fibrinogen?
Fibrinogen (factor I) is a soluble plasma glycoprotein, synthesized by the liver, that is converted by thrombin into fibrin during blood coagulation. This is achieved through processes in the coagulation cascade that activate the zymogen prothrombin to the serine protease thrombin, which is responsible for converting fibrinogen into fibrin. Fibrin is then cross linked by factor XIII to form a clot.
Why is Fibrinogen used diagnostically?
The fibrinogen test is intended for the quantitative determination of the protein concentration. High levels are generally associated with cardiovascular diseases. The parameter may be elevated due to any form of inflammation, as Fibrinogen is an acute-phase protein. Low levels, on the other hand, can indicate a systemic activation of the clotting system – consumption of clotting factors is then faster than synthesis.
Fibrinogen plasma concentration normally increases within 24 to 48 hours in response to inflammation:
Elevated levels of fibrinogen above the normal range of 1.2 – 3.0 g/L indicate a degree of systemic inflammatory response.
Increase in fibrinogen concentration is related to the magnitude of inflammation and often occurs before clinical evidence of disease.
Does the method of blood sample collection matter?
Proper technique for blood collection is essential for accurate results. Blood should be drawn as a-traumatically as possible in a syringe or sodium citrate tube. Samples with visible clotting or debris should be discarded and a fresh sample obtained. The sample should be prepared and tested within 12 hours.
When would clinics use the Canine Fibrinogen™ test?
The QuickVet® Canine Fibrinogen™ Test can detect changes in amount of canine fibrinogen in plasma and can be used in diagnosis of following:
Fibrinogen decrease can be detected in following cases:
- Indication of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
- Potential bleeding.
- Liver problem.
- Low level of fibrinogen below 1.2 g/L (hypofibrinogenemia) may indicate disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), potential bleeding or liver problems.
Fibrinogen increase can be detected in following cases:
- Viral and bacterial infections
- Kidney disease
- Post-abortion
- Traumatic injuries
- Surgery
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Canine pregnancy
Does the QuickVet® Canine Fibrinogen™ test have normal reference intervals?
Yes, the test package insert provides normal reference values. For canine the normality range is 1.2 g/L - 3.0 g/L. The normality range is displayed on the screen together with the result and on printouts.
What animals can be tested with the QuickVet® Canine Fibrinogen™ test?
QuickVet® Canine Fibrinogen™ Test has validated for dogs and QuickVet® Equine Fibrinogen™ Test has been validated for horses.