The Confirmatory Test for Canine Hypothyroidism
Go beyond suspicion to a definitive diagnosis. After a low T4 result, a high TSH level confirms primary hypothyroidism, giving you the diagnostic certainty to begin lifelong therapy.
Confirmatory Test
Sample Type
Time to Result
Kit Size
The Tashikin cTSH Test is the definitive second step in diagnosing canine hypothyroidism. While a low total T4 suggests the condition, it can also be suppressed by non-thyroidal illness. In cases of primary hypothyroidism (the most common form), the pituitary gland responds to low T4 by producing high levels of TSH. Therefore, the combination of a low T4 and a high TSH provides a confident and specific diagnosis, distinguishing true hypothyroidism from other conditions.
Your Path to Diagnostic Certainty:
Screen with T4
Begin your workup with a total T4 test for any dog showing clinical signs of hypothyroidism (e.g., weight gain, alopecia, lethargy).
Confirm with TSH
If the T4 result is low or equivocal, run a cTSH test. An elevated TSH confirms that the pituitary is trying to stimulate a failing thyroid gland.
Initiate Treatment
With a confirmed diagnosis of primary hypothyroidism, you can confidently prescribe levothyroxine and educate the client on lifelong management.
| Parameter | Waarde |
|---|---|
| Analyte | Canine Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (cTSH) |
| Methodology | Fluorescence Immunoassay (FIA) |
| Detection Range | 0.1 - 5.0 ng/mL |
| Sample Type | Canine Serum or Plasma |
| Sample Volume | 100 µL |
| Assay Time | 5-10 minutes |
| Kit Size | 10 Tests / Kit |
| Storage | 2-30°C (36-86°F) |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from date of manufacture |
Performance validated against reference laboratory immunoassays, providing a reliable in-clinic tool for thyroid axis assessment.
Prepare Sample
Prepare canine serum or plasma from a whole blood sample according to standard laboratory procedures.
Add Sample
Using a micropipette, add exactly 100µL of the serum or plasma into the sample well of the test cassette.
Add Buffer
Add 2 drops of the provided assay buffer into the same well and start the timer immediately.
Read Result
At 10 minutes, insert the cassette into the Tashikin FIA Analyzer to obtain the quantitative cTSH result.
Visualize the Complete Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid Axis
Understanding the interplay between hormones is key. By plotting TSH results alongside T4 in VetEx.ai, you create a complete picture of the HPT axis. This visualization is a powerful tool for diagnosing complex cases and for educating clients on why their pet requires treatment.
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