Non-diagnostic Screens for Boxer JKD
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Measuring the urine specific gravity (USG)
This test is ideally performed on early morning fasting urine samples. It measures the ability of the kidneys to concentrate the urine. A well hydrated dog should have a USG value above 1.030 Kidney function is impaired in Boxer JKD, making the urine more dilute than normal and USG values under 1.012 may be obtained. Failure to concentrate urine is indicated by USG values less than 1.020. Variation in USG results is to be expected due to the hydration status of the dog so it is recommended to perform repeat screening of dogs that have lower than normal USG values. Consistent lower values indicate something is wrong with the kidneys and this needs further investigation by the vet. Testing the USG is a more sensitive screen than the best available urine protein-creatinine ratio test (UPC) |
Collect and test the first urine of the day
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Symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA)
SDMA is excreted almost exclusively from the kidneys, making it a good marker for estimating kidney function and giving a warning of developing disease of whatever cause. This newly reported test has the potential of becoming a great early screening for JKD. This sensitive assay detects very low levels of kidney damage (30-40%). It has yet to be validated for JKD screening purposes.
SDMA is excreted almost exclusively from the kidneys, making it a good marker for estimating kidney function and giving a warning of developing disease of whatever cause. This newly reported test has the potential of becoming a great early screening for JKD. This sensitive assay detects very low levels of kidney damage (30-40%). It has yet to be validated for JKD screening purposes.
