What does the IDEXX SNAP®
T4 Test measure?
The SNAP T4 Test measures total thyroxine, commonly
referred to as "total T4" or "T4."
What is hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is a pathological condition resulting from
excessive production of thyroid hormones, characterized by increased
basal metabolism. Hyperthyroidism is a common endocrinopathy in cats,
but is very rare in dogs. Signs and symptoms include weight loss,
polyphagia, hyperactivity and elevated liver enzymes.
At what age should cats be tested for hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism occurs in middle- to old-aged cats with a range of
4–22 years of age and a mean age of 11–13 years.
After diagnosis of hyperthyroidism, what is the next step?
There are three primary treatment options available for hyperthyroid
cats:
- Medical therapy with methimazole (Tapazole®)
- Surgical removal of the thyroid gland (thyroidectomy)
- Radioactive iodine treatment
Can I use T4 to monitor response to treatment?
Yes, the SNAP T4 Test is fully quantitative and enables
you to monitor T4 post-treatment. With the ability to
monitor T4 levels in-house, you can make on-the-spot dosing
adjustments and discuss the course of illness and treatment before
clients leave your clinic.
What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a pathological condition resulting from severe
thyroid insufficiency. Signs and symptoms include weight gain,
alopecia, chronic skin infections, lethargy and neurologic signs.
Often, cholesterol and triglycerides are elevated.
 At what age should dogs be tested for hypothyroidism?
The onset of clinical signs can occur at varying ages, but
generally occurs during middle age (4–10 years). Some high-risk
and large- or giant-breed dogs can develop signs at an earlier age
(2–3 years).
After diagnosis of hypothyroidism, what is the next step?
The treatment of hypothyroidism involves thyroid supplement therapy.
The goal of therapy is to have the dog on the lowest possible dose,
while keeping thyroid levels in the normal to upper-normal range at
peak levels (about 4–6 hours post-pill).
Can I use T4 to monitor response to
levothyroxine (Soloxine®)
therapy?
Yes, the SNAP T4 Test is fully quantitative and enables
you to monitor T4 post-therapy. With the ability to monitor
T4 levels in-house, you can make on-the-spot dosing
adjustments and discuss the course of illness and treatment before
clients leave the clinic.
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