Vets have developed a blood test that quickly spots early signs of liver disease in dogs, a study suggests.
Experts say that the test -- based on insights gained from human patients -- could help vets identify damage and start treatment early, saving the lives of many dogs.
The test -- which is to be launched worldwide -- means that fewer dogs will have to undergo invasive liver biopsies, findings by the University of Edinburgh suggest.
Diagnosing canine liver disease is challenging and catching early signs of damage is key to its treatment, vets say. Current diagnosis is based on biopsies, which are expensive and can lead to complications.
Vets based at the University's Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies teamed up with medical doctors to look at blood levels of a molecule known as miR-122 in dogs. This molecule is found in high levels in people living with liver disease.
Source: Science Daily
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