Alertix Canine - Alertix

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Alertix Canine is an immunodiagnostic assay for measuring the presence of the enzyme thymidine kinase (TK1) in blood from dogs. TK1 is released into the bloodstream in case of increased cell growth and cell turnover. Therefore, an elevated TK 1-level strongly indicates tumor cell growth – cancer.

Also detects solid tumors

There are other assays for measuring TK1 on the market. Those mainly detect hematologic malignancies – e.g. leukemia and lymphoma. These cancers constitute approx. seven percent of all cancers. However, solid tumors are often missed by traditional TK1 assays. This is because they measure the reaction rate of the enzyme. In the blood of patients with solid tumors, however, a major part of the enzyme is inactive.

Unique on the market

What makes Alertix assay unique is that it measures the TK1 protein by an immunodiagnostic method, which means that we use antibodies that bind to TK1.

Subsequently it can be used to detect various forms of tumor cell growth. This innovative approach not only enhances the accuracy and specificity of tumor detection but also opens avenues for early diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies.

Can you be certain that an elevated TK1 level is a result of cancer?

No, it is not quite that easy. It is certain that TK1 is released into the bloodstream in connection with increased cell turnover. But there can also be other explanations – e.g. the presence of a severe inflammation, which can be identified by elevated levels of another biomarker – CRP.

However, it is indisputable that a persistent elevated TK 1 level should always be investigated and may be of great help for diagnosing and treating cancer diseases.

Applications for Alertix Canine

1. Diagnostics

When suspecting cancer Alertix Canine can be a key factor in the diagnostic process. TK1 can be detected in blood serum even before the patient displays clinical symptoms. Therefore, the assay can be crucial for early detection and treatment, which is essential for a good prognosis.

2. Monitoring therapy

Alertix Canine is a powerful tool for monitoring cancer treatment. A simple blood test provides an answer to whether tumor growth is decreasing – thus determining if the patient responds to the treatment. This provides basis for deciding if the therapy should be continued, changed or if it is better for the patient to discontinue.

3. Screening

Cancer is just as common in companion animals as in humans. And just as in humans the risk for cancer increases with rising age. Therefore, there are good reasons to offer screening with Alertix Canine to dogs over a certain age. This applies especially to breeds that are particularly inclined for certain cancer types. But also in general for female dogs over eight years of age, since female dogs are subject to a 30 percent risk of getting mammary tumors.

Benefits with Alertix Canine

Gives a more complete picture

Alertix Canine detects solid tumors as well as blood cancers by a simple blood test. No other test can deliver that. And to the same accuracy.

Early detection, or monitoring

The test, in many cases, can detect cancer, even before the patient shows symptoms. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
The test provides an answer to whether tumor growth is decreasing – thus determining if the patient responds to the treatment. This provides basis for deciding if the therapy should be continued, changed, or if it is better for the patient to discontinue.

Simple & Cost effective

An ordinary painfree blood sample is all it takes. And the sampling requires only equipment found in all veterinary clinics. You can expect your result within a week.
A blood test is very cost effective compared to other test methods.

How does it work

The veterinary clinic takes a few drips of blood from your dog, send it to our lab, and you will get your personal results within 10 days.

How

A quick and simple blood extraction, and seconds later the sample is taken. The inconvenience is minimal for the dog.

Alertix Canine - for Dogs

Assay for early detection, monitoring and screening of tumor diseases in dogs. The assay is available to veterinary clinics and laboratories in Sweden and Scandinavia, and soon in the US

Alertix Feline - for Cats

Assay for early detection, monitoring and screening of tumor diseases in cats.

The assay is under development.

Alertix Equine - for Horses

Assay for early detection, monitoring and screening of tumor diseases in horses.

The assay is under development.

About cancer in companion animals

Did you know that our companion animals are afflicted by cancer as often as humans? Dogs and cats share not only our living environment but also our lifestyle. Because of this they are exposed to the same risk factors for cancer. Veterinary care is getting better and better at treating cancer in companion animals. But the crucial factor of success is that the disease is detected in time.