Comments:

1. Collect a blood sample in an EDTA tube. Fill the tube to its maximum capacity (if possible) and invert it several times to mix the EDTA with the blood.
2. Centrifuge the sample immediately to separate the plasma.
3. After centrifugation, transfer the plasma to a plastic tube or vial and freeze it immediately.
4. Canine samples must be stored in Eppendorf-style polypropylene tubes with screw caps.

Shipping:

• The frozen plasma must be sent in for testing.
• To ensure that the sample remains frozen throughout transport, we recommend using the "popsicle method"

Note:

• Canine ACTH is highly unstable in whole blood samples.
• It is more susceptible to heat and to prolonged contact with red blood cells.
• Do not send whole blood.

• Sample type: Plasma separated with EDTA
• Species: Dogs and Cats
• Recommended volume: 1 mL
• Minimum volume: 0.7 mL
• Container: EDTA tube (purple cap) – without gel separator
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Sample incompatible with the test

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

PRECAUTIONS:

• Plasma ACTH levels in dogs are affected by stress, exercise, and certain medications.
• ACTH is rapidly metabolized in whole blood and serum samples.
• Blood samples should be collected using EDTA as an anticoagulant, kept refrigerated, and the plasma separated as soon as possible.

Test Method:
Performed by Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA).

• Sample type: Serum
• Species: Dogs and Cats
• Recommended volume: 1 mL
• Minimum volume: 0.7 mL
• Container:Tube with a red or yellow cap, containing a separating gel
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Sample incompatible with the test

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

PRECAUTIONS:

• Cortisol is secreted by the adrenal cortex in a highly sporadic manner, and its serum concentration can be affected by circadian rhythms, stress, many medications (particularly NSAIDs and antibiotics), and reproductive status.
• Measuring cortisol levels in a single baseline sample for the diagnosis of adrenal disorders is not recommended.

TEST METHOD
Radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Test Description: Post-ACTH Stimulation Cortisol

Comments: Select this test for samples collected after ACTH administration.

• Sample type: Serum
• Species: Canine, Feline, and Equine
• Recommended volume: 1 mL
• Minimum volume: 0.7 mL
• Container:Tube with a red or yellow cap, containing a separating gel
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Sample incompatible with the test

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

TEST METHOD
Radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Test description: Measurement of serum cortisol levels at baseline (T0) and after ACTH stimulation (T1).
Comments: Primary test for the diagnosis of hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s disease) and assessment of adrenal reserve in cases of suspected hypercortisolism (Cushing’s syndrome).

• Sample type: Serum

• Species: Canine, Feline, Equine

• Optimal volume: 0.7 mL per cycle

• Minimum volume: 0.5 mL per cycle

• Container: Tube with a red or yellow cap

• Rejection Criteria: Incompatible sample or missing time stamps (T0 and T1)

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide, clearly identifying the basal (T0) and post-ACTH (T1) tubes.

• Adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease): Low basal and post-ACTH cortisol levels confirm adrenal reserve insufficiency.

• Hypercortisolism (Cushing's syndrome): Normal dogs may have variable basal cortisol levels, but most dogs with Cushing's disease exhibit an increased post-ACTH response.

* Results should always be interpreted in conjunction with clinical signs, medical history, and additional tests.

Test Method
Radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Test Description: Cortisol: Post-Dexamethasone Suppression Test

Notes: Select this test for samples collected after administration of dexamethasone.

• Sample type: Serum
• Species: Canine, Feline, and Equine
• Recommended volume: 1 mL
• Minimum volume: 0.7 mL
• Container:Tube with a red or yellow cap, containing a separating gel
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Sample incompatible with the test

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

TEST METHOD
Radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Test Description: Cortisol: Post-Dexamethasone Suppression Test

Comments: Select this test for samples collected after administration of dexamethasone.

• Sample type: Serum
• Species: Canine, Feline, and Equine
• Recommended volume: 1 mL
• Minimum volume: 0.7 mL
• Container:Tube with a red or yellow cap, containing a separating gel
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Sample incompatible with the test

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

TEST METHOD
Radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Test Description: Cortisol: Post-Dexamethasone Suppression Test

Comments: Select this test for all samples collected after dexamethasone administration.

• Sample type: Serum
• Species: Canine, Feline, and Equine
• Recommended volume: 1 mL
• Minimum volume: 0.7 mL
• Container:Tube with a red or yellow cap, containing a separating gel
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Sample incompatible with the test

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

TEST METHOD
Radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Test Description:

Urinary Cortisol-to-Creatinine Ratio
Calculates the ratio between these two parameters: urinary cortisol and urinary creatinine.

Comments:

• To minimize the effect of stress on urinary cortisol levels, it is recommended that the sample be collected at home.
• The sample should be stored in the refrigerator until it is sent to the laboratory.

• Sample type: Urine
• Species: Dogs and Cats
• Optimal volume: 4 mL
• Minimum volume: 2 mL

Container:

• Leak-proof and unbreakable container
• Plastic collection tube without additives
• Rejection criteria: Sample or species not validated for the test

Shipping:

• Cool the sample

GENERAL COMMENTS:

The urinary cortisol-to-creatinine ratio is an additional or alternative test for screening for hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's syndrome).

• A normal urinary cortisol-to-creatinine ratio indicates a low likelihood of hyperadrenocorticism.

STORAGE AND SHIPPING:

• Urine samples collected via spontaneous voiding for this test should be stored frozen and shipped refrigerated.

Cortisol Test Method:
Performed by Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA).

Test description: Measurement of baseline serum aldosterone levels to assess adrenal function.
Comments: Important in the investigation of hyperaldosteronism and other disorders of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis.

• Sample type: Serum
• Species: Canine and Feline
• Recommended volume: 0.7 mL
• Minimum volume: 0.5 mL
• Container: Tube with a red or yellow cap, without activating gel
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Sample unsuitable for testing, insufficient volume, or improper submission.

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

Aldosterone levels can be influenced by stress, medications (e.g., diuretics, ACE inhibitors), and variations in sodium and potassium intake. The patient’s clinical status and medical history should be taken into account when interpreting these results.

Test Method
Radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Test description: Measurement of baseline aldosterone levels and levels following ACTH stimulation.
Comments: Used to investigate hyperaldosteronism and other adrenocortical disorders. The protocol involves a baseline sample (T0) and a sample collected 1 hour after ACTH administration (T1).

• Sample type: Serum
• Species: Canine and Feline
• Optimal volume: 0.7 mL per cycle
• Minimum volume: 0.5 mL per cycle
• Container: Tube with a red or yellow cap, without activating gel
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Sample incompatible with the test; incorrect identification of the collection time.

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

Compare baseline and post-ACTH aldosterone levels to assess adrenal response. When interpreting these results, keep in mind that individual values may be influenced by stress and medications.

Test Method
Radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Test description: Measurement of baseline serum aldosterone levels in cats.
Comments: Relevant for the diagnosis of feline hyperaldosteronism (common in older cats, associated with hypertension and hypokalemia).

• Sample type: Serum
• Species: Felidae
• Recommended volume: 0.7 mL
• Minimum volume: 0.5 mL
• Container: Tube with a red or yellow cap, without activating gel
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Incompatible sample, unvalidated species.

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

Elevated aldosterone levels in cats, particularly when associated with persistent hypokalemia and hypertension, suggest primary hyperaldosteronism. It is recommended to evaluate these findings in conjunction with serum potassium levels, blood pressure, and imaging studies.

Test Method
Radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Test description: Measurement of baseline serum androstenedione, a steroid produced by the adrenal glands and gonads, and a precursor of testosterone and estrone.
Comments: Useful in the investigation of androgen-secreting adrenal tumors and reproductive disorders.

• Sample type: Serum
• Species: Canine and Feline
• Recommended volume: 1 mL
• Minimum volume: 0.8 mL
• Container: Tube with a red or yellow cap, without activating gel
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Incompatible sample, insufficient volume, or excessive hemolysis.

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

Elevated levels of androstenedione may be associated with androgen-producing adrenocortical tumors or dysfunction of the adrenal/reproductive axis. These results should be interpreted in conjunction with other steroid hormones (cortisol, progesterone, estradiol, 17-OH-progesterone).

Test Method
Radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Test description: Measurement of basal androstenedione levels and levels following ACTH stimulation.
Comments: Assesses adrenal reserve for androgen secretion. Recommended in protocols for differentiating between secretory adrenal tumors and atypical adrenal hyperplasia.

• Sample type: Serum
• Species: Canine and Feline
• Recommended volume: 1 mL per cycle
• Minimum volume: 0.8 mL per cycle
• Container: Tube with a red or yellow cap, without activating gel
  
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Incompatible sample, missing time points (T0 and T1).

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

An increase in androstenedione following ACTH stimulation may indicate abnormal adrenal secretion. Persistently elevated levels at baseline and/or post-ACTH reinforce the suspicion of adrenal neoplasia or atypical hyperplasia. Always correlate these findings with clinical findings, imaging results, and levels of other adrenal hormones.

Test Method
Radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Test description: Measurement of baseline serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone, an intermediate steroid in the synthesis of cortisol and androgens.
Comments: Indicated for the investigation of secretory adrenal tumors and in cases of atypical adrenal hyperplasia.

• Sample type: Serum
• Species: Canine and Feline
• Recommended volume: 0.7 mL
• Minimum volume: 0.5 mL
• Container: Tube with a red or yellow cap, without activating gel
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Incompatible sample, insufficient volume, or improper shipment.

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

Elevated levels of 17-OH progesterone may be associated with sex-steroid-producing adrenocortical tumors or atypical forms of adrenal hyperplasia. These results should be interpreted in conjunction with cortisol, androstenedione, progesterone, and estradiol.

Test Method
Radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Test description: Measurement of basal 17-hydroxyprogesterone and levels following ACTH stimulation.
Comments: Essential for the diagnosis of atypical adrenal hyperplasia, in which there is an abnormal response of steroid precursors.

• Sample type: Serum
• Species: Canine and Feline
• Optimal volume: 0.7 mL per cycle
• Minimum volume: 0.5 mL per cycle
• Container: Tube with a red or yellow cap, without activating gel
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Incompatible sample, lack of identification of collection times (T0 and T1).

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

Significant elevations in 17-OH progesterone following ACTH stimulation suggest atypical adrenal hyperplasia, even when baseline and post-ACTH cortisol levels are within the normal range. Interpretation should take into account the clinical presentation, ultrasound findings, and levels of other adrenal steroids.

Test Method
Radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Species: Canine and Feline.

Comments:

• Avoid using tubes with serum-separating gel.

• Sample type: Serum
• Species: Canine
• Optimal volume: 0.7 mL per cycle
• Minimum volume: 0.5 mL per cycle
• Container: Eppendorf tube or dry tube
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Incompatible and hemolyzed sample.

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

Test Method
Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA).

Test description: Measurement of serum testosterone levels before (T0) and after ACTH stimulation (T1).
Comments: Used to assess adrenal and gonadal function, particularly in the investigation of secretory adrenal tumors and atypical adrenal hyperplasia.

• Sample type: Serum
• Species: Canine and Feline
• Optimal volume: 0.7 mL per cycle
• Minimum volume: 0.5 mL per cycle
• Container: Tube with a red or yellow cap, without activating gel
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Incompatible sample or lack of clear identification of collection times.

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

An increase in testosterone following ACTH stimulation may indicate abnormal adrenal secretion. This finding should be interpreted in conjunction with other steroid levels (17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, estradiol) and imaging studies.

Test Method
Radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Test description: Measurement of baseline serum estradiol (T0) and after ACTH stimulation (T1).
Comments: Helps differentiate estrogen-secreting adrenal tumors and in investigations of atypical adrenal hyperplasia.

• Sample type: Serum
• Species: Canine and Feline
• Optimal volume: 0.7 mL per cycle
• Minimum volume: 0.5 mL per cycle
• Container: Tube with a red or yellow cap, without activating gel
• Fasting: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Rejection criteria: Incompatible sample, hemolysis, or failure to identify the time points.

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

Abnormal elevations in estradiol following an ACTH stimulation test suggest adrenal dysfunction or secretory tumors. Interpretation should always take into account the clinical presentation, imaging studies, and levels of other related steroids.

Test Method
Radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Test description: Measurement of catecholamines (adrenaline, norepinephrine, and dopamine) in urine.
Comments: Test used in the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma and other catecholamine-secreting tumors.

• Sample type: Urine (spontaneous voiding or catheterization)
• Species: Canine
• Recommended volume: 7–10 mL
• Minimum volume: 5 mL
• Container: Sterile, leak-proof plastic container; add 0.15 mg of sulfamic acid within 24 hours of collection
• Rejection criteria: Sample without a preservative, insufficient volume, inappropriate container.

SHIPPING
Follow the step-by-step instructions in our Pocket Guide.

Elevated levels of urinary catecholamines may indicate pheochromocytoma. Results should be evaluated in conjunction with clinical signs (persistent hypertension, tachycardia, episodes of collapse) and confirmatory tests (urinary metanephrines, imaging).

Test Method
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).