Antech News - August 1998

August • 1998

ALLERGY DIAGNOSIS CONT'D

Corticosteroid Withdrawal Times Prior to Testing

Literature regarding the effects of corticosteroids on antigen-specific IgE levels as measured by ELISA is controversial. Until proven otherwise, the prudent approach is to withdraw corticosteroid use prior to in vitro allergy testing. While withdrawal from corticosteroids may increase the pet's discomfort level, it has the potential benefit of improving the ability to identify offending allergens.

Corticosteroid	Minimum Recommended Withdrawal Time
Oral prednisone, prednisolone or methylprednisolone at ž 0.25 mg/kg Q.O.D.	14-21 days
Oral prednisone, prednisolone or methylprednisolone at >= 0.25 mg/kg Q.O.D. or given O.D.	30-45 days
Oral triamcinolone or dexamethasone given Q.O.D.	45-60 days
Injectable triamcinolone acetonide (Vetalog®):	60 days
Injectable methylprednisolone acetate (Depo-medrol®):	60-90 days
Topical corticosteroids (otic and ophthalmic preparations):	21-30 days

Because of seasonal and individual variation in IgE levels, serum samples for IgE testing should be sent during the height of the allergy season for patients with seasonal allergic disease.

For questions regarding medication withdrawal, or advice regarding case management or diagnosis of allergy patients, contact Heska's Medical and Technical Consultation Group for a complimentary consultation (888-HESKA-TS; 888-437-5287).

Tests Available through Antech

All panels use the Heska Fc*Ri*-based ELISA system. Comprehensive Regional Panel. Tests for 48 of the most common inhalant allergens in your area, including the Heska flea allergy dermatitis (FAD)-specific ELISA.

Combined Panel. Includes the Comprehensive Regional Panel, FAD-specific test, and a food panel of 18 food allergens.

Comprehensive Regional Panel Heska's Allergy Screen
Test code	Please call lab for code # in your region (ie., NE, NW, SE, SW or Tropical)
Specimen requirement	Serum: canine, 3 ml; feline, 1.5 ml
Turnaround time	3 days
Price	$90
Combined Panel Heska's Food and Allergy Screen
Test code	Please call lab for code # in your region
Specimen requirement	Serum: canine, 5 ml; feline, 3 ml
Turnaround time	3 days
Price	$165
Heska's Food Allergy Screen
Test code	#17018
Specimen requirement	Serum: canine & feline, 1.5 - 2 ml
Turnaround time	3 days
Price	$75
Heska's Flea Allergy Screen
Test code	#17024
Specimen requirement	Serum: canine & feline, 1.5 - 2 ml
Turnaround time	3 days
Price	$22

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