Virology
Sample Solicitation for UTCVM Parvovirus Study
Concern exists over the continued evolution of canine parvovirus. In recent years, the presence of new variants, including some with amino acid changes at residue 426 of the canine parvovirus capsid protein VP2 have been noted (strains with this specific mutation are referred to as CPV-2c). This strain, as well as other variants, has been detected in the US.
Most ELISA detection assays for CPV use monoclonal antibodies which are specific for a single antigenic epitope. This could lead to false negative results if mutations alter the epitope targeted with these immunodetection assays.
The Clinical Virology Laboratory at UTCVM is investigating whether current ELISA's detect parvoviruses that may vary antigenically from the prototype CPV-2b, the most common isolate currently circulating in the USA. For this study, we are accepting fecal samples from suspect parvovirus cases (either ELISA negative or ELISA positive samples are acceptable). We will test the sample by real-time PCR, which can detect very low levels of virus in the feces. If positive by this assay, we will then genetically characterize the virus to determine the strain type. If negative by PCR, we will perform electronmicroscopy in order to determine if other virus(es) is/are present.
This testing will be done at no charge, including shipping. However, results for the veterinarian will not be available in a timely manner, as samples are processed in batches. If timely results are needed, please indicate on the submission form that it is a diagnostic sample; you will be charged ONLY for the real-time PCR assay, which will be completed within 2-3 days of submission. The additional testing (genetic characterization or electronmicroscopy) will still be done at no charge (at a later date). To submit a sample, collect the fecal specimen during the acute phase of disease (the sample can be safely stored in the refrigerator until shipping). Double bag the specimen and ship on cold pack.
Shipping address and downloadable form can be found at http://www.vet.utk.edu/diagnostic/virology/pdf/CPVStudy.pdf
For each sample, we would like to know the following information:
- Date of last vaccination
- Current signs of disease and duration, including CBC results if available
- ELISA result if available and which test was used (e.g. SNAP, Synbiotics, etc.)
PLEASE CONTACT THE LAB (865-974-5643) FOR SHIPPING ASSISTANCE PRIOR TO SHIPMENT.
Thank you for your assistance with this investigation. Please feel free to contact me with any questions (865-974-5827; mkenned2@utk.edu).
Melissa Kennedy, DVM, PhD, DACVM
Director, Clinical Virology