|
dog and cat assay data sheet
Feline calicivirus (FCV)
Test code:
S0110 - Ultrasensitive qualitative detection of feline calicivirus
by reverse transcription coupled real time polymerase chain reaction
S0110 is
included on P0020 - feline
respiratory panel
Feline
calicivirus (FCV) infection causes upper respiratory tract (pneumotropic
form) infection and occasionally causes joint pain and lameness
(rheumatic form). Feline calicivirus is a single-stranded RNA
virus with a worldwide distribution, affecting domestic cats and
a few wild felid species.
FCV is
transmitted by ingestion or inhalation of infectious virus
present in saliva and excretions from affected cats. The oral
route of infection is most important, and direct contact with
infected cats or contaminated fomites is the primary method of
transmission rather than aerosolized particulates. The virus is
highly contagious. Cats of all ages can be affected by FCV
infection but kittens are more likely to develop symptoms.
FCV mainly
infects the oral and respiratory tissues. Different strains of
FCV may have affinities to different tissues. Some strains have
a predilection for the lung, and other strains have been found
in the macrophages within the synovial membrane of joints. The
virus can also be found in visceral tissues, feces, and
occasionally in urine.
Infected
cats usually develop vesicles and erosions of the tongue, hard
palate, and nasal planum. Healing takes more than two weeks.
Recovered cats often remain lifelong carriers of FCV and can
shed virus continually. PCR testing of throat swabs is extremely
helpful for the monitoring of viral shedding. Feline calicivirus
carriers are quite common despite vaccination. Vaccination
protects against full blown disease but does not reliably
prevent infection.
Utilities:
-
Confirm the disease causing agent
-
Ensure that feline groups and populations are free of
FCV
-
Early prevention of spread of FCV among a cat population
-
Minimize human exposure to this virus
-
Safety monitoring of biological products and vaccines
that derive from susceptible animals
Specimen requirement:
Throat swab or 0.5 ml tracheal wash.
For specimen
types other than those listed here, please call to confirm
specimen acceptability and shipping instructions.
For all
specimen types, if there will be a delay in shipping, or during
very warm weather, refrigerate specimens until shipped and ship
with a cold pack unless more stringent shipping requirements are
specified. Frozen specimens should be shipped so as to remain
frozen in transit. See shipping
instructions for more information.
Turnaround time:
2 business days
Methodology:
Qualitative reverse transcription coupled real time PCR
Normal range:
Nondetected
|
