TITER test information

misinformation surrounding this simple blood test, and to assist you determine whether or not to run your dogs antibody titers. What is titer testing? A titer test (pronounced TIGHT er) is a laboratory test measuring the creation and even of antibodies in blood. Antibodies are produced when an antigen (like a virus or bacteria) provokes an immune response. This reaction can get from natural exposure or from vaccination. (Note: titering is likewise called serum vaccine antibody titering and serologic vaccine titering. How is the test performed?First, one ml of origin is drawn. The sample is then diluted. Titer levels, expressed as ratios, indicate how many times blood can be diluted before no antibodies are detected. If blood can be diluted a thousand times and even show antibodies, the proportion would be 1:1000. This is a strong titer. A titer of 1:2 would be weak. Confused? Dont worry. Your test result will give an account of what your animals test result means. Should I test for all diseases?The most recommended test examines antibodies for both Parvo Virus and distemper, the two most important viruses. Rabies titers are too often tested. Usually, for most dogs, tests for other diseases are mostly not considered useful or necessary. Why test? The Parvo Virus/distemper test can assist you or others (vets, groomers, kennel owners, etc. determine if your dog requires additional vaccination, and may keep your dog unnecessary shots. It is particularly useful when devising a conclusion about vaccinating an animal with unknown vaccination history, or for deciding if puppies have received resistance from vaccination (more below). Most experts believe strong titers are a more reliable reading of immunity than vaccination:tests show the actual immune response, not only the effort to have an immune response by vaccination. Do not expect, however, that everyone will accept test results in point of proof of vaccination. The subject of resistance is complicated, and we are programmed to conceive of vaccination as the gold standardthe more, the better. Experts who dispute the status quo are often maligned. Humans dont like change.