Urine dipstick test for BTA used in diagnosis of canine transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) was recently evaluated (Vet Clin Pathol 28(1): 33-38, 1999). Results appeared promising with an overall test sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 78%. False positives were obtained for urine samples with significant glucosuria (4+), proteinuria (4+), and pyuria or hematuria (>30-40 WBC or RBC/hpf).

Urinalysis parameters that did not affect test efficacy included collection method (cystocentesis or free catch), pH, specific gravity and presence of crystalluria, bilirubinuria, bacteriuria and casts.

Antech's Research Department evaluated 14 canine cases of suspected TCC with this urine BTA test. Ten cytologically confirmed TCC cases were BTA positive. Two gave false positive results (pyuria, chronic cystitis on histopathology). One BTA result was negative but had a suspected TCC on cytologic examination (biopsy and histopathology recommended), and a second BTA negative case was confirmed by cytology and histopathology to have TCC, although the urine from this case arrived at lab >48 hours after collection (true false negative).

Conclusion: For canine patients with clinical signs of LUTD, the BTA urine test offers a practical adjunct screening method for TCC, and is best performed before hematuria and pyuria develop (may interfere with test specificity).

Sample requirement: Urine must be centrifuged and at least 2 mL of supernatant removed and transferred to a clean tube. Refrigerate sample and ensure that it reaches Antech within 48 hours of collection.

Test code: #4383; Price: $30.00

Note:
For Urine Protein / Creatinine Ratio, always perform a urinalysis as well. If urinalysis reveals inflammation, hematuria or neoplasia, the urine protein/creatinine ratio will be elevated.

Test code for Urine P/C Ratio & Urinalysis is: #9754; Price $20.00.