What blood tests should I get for my dog with allergies? - briefly
If your dog is exhibiting symptoms of allergies, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian who can recommend appropriate blood tests. Commonly suggested tests include a Complete Blood Count (CBC) and a Chemistry Panel to evaluate overall health and organ function. Additionally, specific allergy testing such as the serum allergy test may be recommended to identify particular allergens triggering your dog's symptoms.
What blood tests should I get for my dog with allergies? - in detail
When your dog is exhibiting symptoms of allergies, such as itching, redness, or excessive scratching, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. While blood tests alone cannot definitively diagnose allergies in dogs, they can provide valuable information that helps guide further diagnostic procedures and treatments. Here are some key blood tests that your veterinarian might recommend for your dog with suspected allergies:
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Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test evaluates the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in your dog's blood. Allergic reactions can sometimes cause changes in these cell counts. For example, an increase in eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) may indicate an allergic response.
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Serum Proteins: Measuring the levels of serum proteins can help identify certain types of allergies. Specifically, elevated globulin levels might suggest a food allergy or other underlying issues that need further investigation.
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Allergen-Specific IgE Testing: This test measures the level of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your dog's bloodstream. IgE is produced in response to specific allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, or certain foods. A higher-than-normal level of IgE indicates that your dog has been exposed to and is reacting to those particular allergens.
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Food Allergy Panel: If food allergies are suspected, a blood test can be performed to check for antibodies against various common food allergens. This panel typically includes proteins from common foods like chicken, beef, dairy, and grains.
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Thyroid Function Tests: Hypothyroidism can cause skin issues that may mimic allergies. Therefore, evaluating thyroid function is important to rule out any underlying hormonal imbalances before attributing symptoms solely to allergies.
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Eosinophil Count: As mentioned earlier, eosinophils are a type of white blood cell associated with allergic reactions. An elevated eosinophil count can indicate the presence of allergies or parasitic infections.
It's crucial to note that while these blood tests provide valuable insights, they should be interpreted in conjunction with a thorough physical examination and a detailed history of your dog's symptoms. Allergies in dogs are complex and often require a combination of diagnostic tools to accurately identify the underlying cause.
In addition to blood tests, other diagnostic methods such as intradermal skin testing or elimination diets might be recommended by your veterinarian to pinpoint the specific allergens causing your dog's symptoms. Always consult with a professional to ensure the most effective and comprehensive approach to managing your dog's allergies.