PCR is a more sensitive and specific test for haemoplasma infections in cats. The PCR test can detect both species of mycoplasma and will distinguish between them. (See figure 1.)

Antech Diagnostics has arranged to have their PCR testing performed by Dr. Joanne Messick's laboratory at the University of Illinois.

Using a refined PCR test for haemoplasma infections, more than 300 cats have been tested at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine over the last 3 years; and ~20% of them were positive. Of all 300 cats tested, 10% were positive for M. haemofelis, 7% for M. haemominutum, and 3% had dual infection. Prevalence of infection was higher, almost 25%, among the group of cats that were anemic. In another study, 28% of blood samples from cats in which infection was suspected on the basis of fever, anemia, or microscopic evidence of parasitemia, gave positive PCR test results.

Figure 1

(Contributed by Dr. Joanne B. Messick)