New Free T4 Test

[Larry and Kitties]

Idexx just announced an new (Nov 2010) test for free T4 instead of T4 by ED. See:
http://www.idexx.com/pubwebresources/pd ... -paper.pdf
Any comments?

 

[Jill and Remi]

Interesting, in a good way. My civie, Phoebe, just had a free T4 test run on Monday so I wonder if it was this. It came back that she was euthyroid- which I have been struggling to get her to for the past year. Will have to call my vet to see if it was this new test. Looks like good news!

 

[Lisa and Merlyn (GA)]

Interesting.. I know part of the reason the turnaround time is lower is that it is automated. I wonder then, when the Free T4 by ED would be needed and if vets will still suggest the add on test. It sounds like the new test is the routine test now.

 

[Jess & Earl]

I don't see a pressing reason to switch. I'd consider the FT4(ed) more accurate in cases of hypOthyroidism, esp secondary to thyroid AA (problem in some dogs, particularly some breeds) until proven otherwise. I am not impressed with their numbers, and their studies were relatively small (<60 animals in each category).

Diagnosing hypothyroidism in dogs can be frustrating, but as it is not life-threatening, it's not like this new test which might be more accurate in some cases of hypOthryoidism ((except T4AA cases, and euthyroid sick) is a lifeline we just have to grab.

BTW, Idexx is pushing the test hard so if anyone's vet uses Idexx, you will be assigned this new test unless your clinic makes other arrangements.

 

[WCF and Meowzi]

*feeling stupid*
Jess, what's AA?

 

[OptOut]

*feeling stupid*
Jess, what's AA?

Alcohol Anonymous? :lol:

 

[WCF and Meowzi]

*feeling stupid*
Jess, what's AA?

Alcohol Anonymous? :lol:

:lol:

 

[Larry and Kitties]

In the contex here, AA is autoantibody. See the following for a discussion concerning thyroid problems in canines.
http://www.itsfortheanimals.com/THYROID-DILEMMA.HTM

 

[Deanie and Boo (GA) and Scout]

I don't see a pressing reason to switch.

I can see a couple of good reasons. RIA testing is pretty antiquated and not really in use much any more. It's time consuming and labor intensive. Given that there is a nationwide shortage of laboratory testing personnel and many of the schools are closing, most labs have to do more work with fewer people. That means more automated testing and less hands-on work.

 

[Jess & Earl]

I don't see a pressing reason to switch.

I can see a couple of good reasons. RIA testing is pretty antiquated and not really in use much any more. It's time consuming and labor intensive. Given that there is a nationwide shortage of laboratory testing personnel and many of the schools are closing, most labs have to do more work with fewer people. That means more automated testing and less hands-on work.

These are reasons for the company to develop an automated test and market it heavily, not medical reasons. I can see why Idexx did this, but my comments were related to medical and diagnostic benefits. Right now there just aren't the numbers behind this to say it is a better test for cats and dogs.