WHAT IS BLADDER CANCER?
The cells lining the bladder and urinary tracts can begin to grow in an uncontrolled manner resulting in the disease known as bladder cancer. Transitional cells line the bladder proper and are so named because they transition from square when the bladder is empty to flat when the bladder is full. Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) is the most frequently occurring malignancy of the urinary tract in dogs. The incidence increases with the dog's age. Long-term exposure to herbicides and pesticides increase the risk of a dog developing bladder cancer.
HOW COMMON IS BLADDER CANCER?
Although the incidence of bladder cancer is low, there has been a significant increase in the disease over the last ten years.
WHY IS THE V-BTA TEST IMPORTANT?
Bladder cancer in dogs is rarely diagnosed until the disease is at an advanced stage. When detected early bladder cancer can be treated more effectively. Because the symptoms of bladder cancer resemble other diseases of the urinary tract, it can be difficult to diagnose. Use of the V-BTA Test may rule out a diagnosis of bladder cancer, thereby minimizing the need for costly or invasive testing.
WHAT IS THE V-BTA TEST?
The V-BTA Test is a rapid test that measures a protein complex associated with bladder tumors. The test is simple and takes 5 minutes.
WHAT IS REQUIRED TO RUN THE V-BTA TEST?
The test requires one urine sample, either collected at home or in the veterinary office.
HOW THE THE TEST WORK?
The V-BTA Test uses a special reagent that detects a bladder cancer associated substance. A color change occurs in the reagent when it is mixed with canine urine containing this substance.
HOW DO YOU KNOW THAT THE TEST WORKS?
The V-BTA Test was evaluated in a study at the major university veterinary center. Because the test is able to rule out TCC in 95 to 100 dogs, the test provides a simple non-invasive way to screen your pet for bladder cancer.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF MY DOG'S TEST RESULT IS NEGATIVE?
A negative test result supports that your dog is currently free of TCC.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF MY DOG'S TEST RESULT IS POSITIVE?
A positive test result may mean that your dog has bladder cancer. However, there are conditions other than bladder cancer that can cause a positive result. A positive test result will be used in conjunction with signs, symptoms, and possibly other diagnostic tests such as ultrasound to make a definitive diagnosis for your dog.
WHICH DOGS SHOULD BE TESTED WITH THE V-BTA TEST?
Senior dogs, dogs with the long-term exposure to herbicides, or dogs with symptoms of lower urinary tract disease may benefit from the V-BTA Test.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD THE V-BTA TEST BE RUN?
The test can be used for screening and for dogs with symptoms. Senior dogs may benefit from screening. The frequency of testing for your dog will be determined by your veterinarian.
HOW CAN MY DOG BE TESTED WITH THE V-BTA TEST?
Discuss the test with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can run the test in their office or send your dog's urine to a lab
FAQ's
