Why This Test Matters

✔ Direct molecular detection of heartworm DNA
✔ Supports identification of active infection
✔ Helps improve detection in early-stage infections
✔ Useful in occult or low-burden cases
✔ Adds diagnostic value alongside traditional screening approaches
✔ Supports confident clinical decision-making in complex cases

When Should This Test Be Ordered?

The Heartworm PCR test is recommended as a screening and confirmatory tool for 

the detection of active infection, particularly in:

• Routine screening prior to initiation or continuation of heartworm prevention
• Cases where early infection is a concern
• Patients with negative or inconclusive antigen results despite clinical suspicion
• Detection of occult or low-burden infections
• Situations requiring enhanced diagnostic sensitivity
• Follow-up evaluation in complex or uncertain cases

Why Molecular Testing?

Unlike traditional antigen-based methods that detect circulating parasite proteins,

PCR testing detects the genetic material (DNA) of Dirofilaria immitis, providing 

direct molecular evidence of active infection.

This advanced methodology may support:

✔ Earlier detection before antigen levels become detectable
✔ Enhanced evaluation of low-burden or occult infections
✔ Additional diagnostic confidence in complex cases
✔ A more comprehensive heartworm screening approach

Clinical Value

Designed to complement routine heartworm screening by providing direct molecular evidence 

of Dirofilaria immitis DNA, supporting enhanced detection in select clinical cases.