219 – Cancer Panel + VitD + B12 + HPT

*This panel may be listed as 219b – indicating that the Neoplasia Index is modified for specific use in Lymphoma to improve sensitivity and specificity for that application.  All other features remain the same.

Background:

The VDI Cancer Panel is for the diagnosis and monitoring of cancer in the sick dog or cat.  Unifying a blood marker of abnormal cell proliferation, Thymidine Kinase Type 1 (TK1) and inflammatory marker CRP or HPT (species dependent) into the Neoplasia Index­, the Cancer Panel is a Rule-in for neoplasia.   VDI provides context-sensitive results interpretation and clinical review on all Cancer Panels.  Learn More.

Type-specific cancer panels may be available to improve diagnostic performance in those cases. (GI Lymphoma, Cancer Panel Lymphoma, Pre-Stem Cell Panel).

The Essential Vitamins D & Vitamin B12 are a valuable addition to managing the acutely ill animal, and low levels have all been associated with cancer.  Their role in inflammation, DNA synthesis, and innate immunity makes having sufficient levels important.  VDI provides patient-specific dosing guidelines to correct deficiencies in Vitamin D and B12.

Haptoglobin (HPT) is another acute phase protein in dogs that is a marker of systemic inflammation.  While CRP responds more rapidly to inflammatory stimuli, the alternate response curve of HPT may provide further insight to the dog’s ability to manage the inflammatory disease.

Clinical Applications:

1. Suspected Cancer
   • Identified mass
   • ADR (Ain’t Doing Right)
   • Suspicious signs/imaging
2. Confirmed Cancer
   • Monitor Therapy Efficacy
   • Monitor disease progression
   • Determine remission & identify early signs of relapse
   • Identify metastatic disease

Recommendations:

The Cancer Panel should be performed prior to administration of steroids, chemo, NSAIDs or other therapy whenever possible.  VDI can interpret results around the presence of therapy, but please be sure to indicate on the Test Requisition Form any medications at the time of draw.

Repeat testing (monitoring) is suggested at varying time windows depending on the patient status, diagnosis, and application.  Contact VDI for consultation on any case to determine the best repeat test window.