obsolete feline infectious peritonitis

Obsolescence of Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

While Feline Infectious Peritonitis was once considered a fatal disease in cats, recent advancements in antiviral treatments have shown promise for safe and effective treatment. However, it's essential to note that the disease is still not curable, and most patients are either euthanized immediately or within weeks to months after diagnosis [13].

Historical Signs and Symptoms

In the past, Feline Infectious Peritonitis presented with a range of symptoms, including:

• Vague signs such as lethargy, loss of appetite, weight loss, and episodes of pyrexia (fever) [7], [14]
• Common non-specific symptoms like fever, weight loss, depression, and loss of appetite [8]
• Initial phase: common cold-like symptoms, followed by ataxia, muscle weakness, dysphagia, shortness of breath, urinary incontinence, and paralysis [6]

Hallmark Symptoms

Historically, hallmark symptoms included a distended belly from fluid in the abdomen and/or difficulty breathing from fluid accumulating around the lungs [3].

Organ Involvement

The signs of feline infectious peritonitis varied depending on which organs were involved. Many organs, including the liver, kidneys, pancreas, CNS, and eyes, could be affected [11]. The length of time between infection and mutation of the virus and development of signs varied between cats.

Early Signs

Early signs of FIP can vary but often include a rising temperature, loss of appetite, and weight loss. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may develop, including ocular and/or neurological signs [2].

It's worth noting that while these symptoms were once characteristic of Feline Infectious Peritonitis, recent advancements in antiviral treatments have changed the disease's presentation and prognosis.

Diagnostic Tests for Obsolete Feline Infectious Peritonitis

Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) was a viral disease that affected cats, causing symptoms such as fever, weight loss, and respiratory problems. While it is still possible to contract the disease in some parts of the world, its prevalence has significantly decreased due to advances in veterinary medicine and changes in cat breeding practices.

Historical Diagnostic Tests

In the past, several diagnostic tests were used to detect FIP in cats. These included:

• Protein electrophoresis on effusions: This test was used to analyze the protein composition of fluid accumulations in the body, which could indicate the presence of FIP (10).
• PCR Test for the Detection of the Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP): A duplex test that could detect the presence of FIP virus in whole blood, ascites fluid, tissue, and fecal swabs (8).
• Clinical data analysis: Veterinarians would analyze clinical data from cats with suspected FIP to assess the value of various diagnostic tests (10).

Obsolescence of Diagnostic Tests

Many of these diagnostic tests have become obsolete due to advances in veterinary medicine. The development of more sensitive and specific tests has made it possible to diagnose FIP more accurately.

• Serology: While serology was once used to detect antibodies against the FIP virus, it is no longer considered a reliable method for diagnosing the disease (14).
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR): PCR testing has become more widespread and sensitive, making it possible to detect the presence of the FIP virus in cats (14).

Current Diagnostic Approach

The current diagnostic approach for FIP involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Veterinarians use a range of tests to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.

• Clinical examination: A thorough physical examination is essential to identify any abnormalities in the cat's behavior, appetite, or physical condition (11).
• Laboratory tests: Laboratory tests such as complete blood counts, biochemistry profiles, and PCR testing can help confirm the diagnosis of FIP (4).

Conclusion

While diagnostic tests for obsolete feline infectious peritonitis are no longer used, it is essential to understand their historical significance. The development of more sensitive and specific tests has made it possible to diagnose FIP more accurately, and veterinarians now use a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis.

References:

• (10) Stranieri A, Giordano A, Paltrinieri S, et al. Comparison of the performance of laboratory tests in the diagnosis of feline infectious peritonitis. J Vet Diagn Invest 2018; 30: 459–463.
• (8) Hirschberger J, Hartmann K, Wilhelm N, et al. Clinical symptoms and diagnosis of feline infectious peritonitis [article in German].
• (14) Felten S, Hartmann K. Diagnosis of feline infectious peritonitis: a review of the current literature. Viruses 2019; 11: 1068.
• (4) Hartmann K, Binder C, Hirschberger J, et al. Comparison of different tests to diagnose feline infectious peritonitis. J Vet Intern Med 2003; 17: 781–790.

Treatment Options for Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a fatal and difficult-to-detect disease caused by feline coronavirus (FCoV). While there is no FDA-approved drug to treat FIP in the United States or Canada, several treatment options are available for veterinarians.

• GS-441524: A compounded oral formulation of GS-441524 has been made available through an exclusive partnership between Bova Group and Stokes Pharmacy. This medication is now available in a quad-scored, 50-count tablet form.
• Remdesivir: As Remdesivir was a licensed human drug, it can be readily used off-label in veterinary applications, such as treatment of FIP in cats and kittens. Oral treatment with Xraphconn containing GS-441524 was highly effective for FIP without causing serious adverse effects.

Important Considerations

• The use of these medications should be done under the guidance of a veterinarian.
• The efficacy and safety of these treatments may vary depending on individual circumstances.
• It is essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best course of treatment for your cat.

References

• Stokes Pharmacy's announcement regarding the availability of GS-441524 for FIP treatment [1].
• A study on the effectiveness of oral treatment with Xraphconn containing GS-441524 for FIP [7].
• Information on Remdesivir as an off-label medication for veterinary use [8].

Note: The information provided is based on the search results and may not be comprehensive or up-to-date. It is essential to consult with a veterinarian for accurate and personalized advice.

Differential Diagnoses for Obsolete Feline Infectious Peritonitis

Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a viral disease that affects cats, but it's essential to consider other differential diagnoses when diagnosing this condition. Here are some obsolete differential diagnoses for FIP:

• Toxoplasmosis: This parasitic infection can cause similar symptoms to FIP, such as neurological signs and effusion [5][9].
• Mycobacterial infection: Cats with mycobacterial infections may present with pyogranulomatous inflammation, which can be mistaken for FIP [4][12].
• Actinomyces: This bacterial infection can cause abscesses and pyogranulomatous inflammation, leading to differential diagnoses with FIP [4][12].
• Nocardia: Nocardial infections can also cause pyogranulomatous inflammation and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of FIP [4][12].

Important Considerations

When diagnosing FIP, it's crucial to consider these obsolete differential diagnoses, especially in cats with similar symptoms. A complete history, physical examination, and adequate selection and interpretation of diagnostic tests are essential for accurate antemortem diagnosis [11]. Additionally, the presence of a positive FCoV titer does not necessarily mean that the cat has FIP, as up to 95% of cats can be carriers at one point or another [8].

References

[4] Context result 4 [5] Context result 5 [8] Context result 8 [9] Context result 9 [11] Context result 11 [12] Context result 12