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Immunoassay
The serological examination is the most sensitive detection method for Dirofilaria immitis and detects the surface proteins of female, parturient filariae (macrofilarial worms), which are parasites in the heart or in larger vessels. The earliest time for a positive result is
half a year p.i., but it can be delayed up to nine months if infected dogs receive heartworm prevention. Examination of puppies under the age of six months is therefore not appropriate. If in doubt, it is recommended to test for microfilariae or to take the test at a later
point in time. Therapy monitoring should be done at the earliest 4 – 5 months after completing therapy. For the detection of microfilariae please check test number 2017 Microfilaria - Ag (Dog, Cat) Knott test and for PCR test please check test number 8101 Microfilaria -PCR
Filaria
In Europe alone, five different filarial species are known to cause filariasis in dogs: Dirofilaria immitis, Dirofilaria repens as well as Dipetalonema reconditum, Dipetalonema (Acanthocheilonema) dracunculoides and Cercopithifilaria grassi. Dirofilaria immitis causes 'cardiovascular dirofilariasis' (heartworm disease), Dirofilaria repens 'causescutaneous dirofilariasis'. Both types of dirofilariasis are zoonoses and are transmitted by mosquitoes, including the common house mosquito (Culex pipiens) which is very common in Germany. According to literature, the other three filarial species are considered apathogenic, a fact which will not be tenable in future, at least concerning Dip. reconditum and possibly Dip. dracunculoides, too.
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