Description
Usage Instructions for Vet Expert Rapid Test Canine Relaxin
Basic Principles
The Vet Expert Rapid Test Canine Relaxin is a chromatographic immunoassay for the qualitative detection of relaxin (RLN) in canine serum or plasma. The test can be used 15 days after mating to aid in the early diagnosis of pregnancy.
Relaxin is a peptide hormone produced and secreted by the corpus luteum and placenta during pregnancy. Its secretion gradually increases throughout gestation, dropping sharply to undetectable levels after birth or abortion. Relaxin levels in pregnant dogs between the 15th and 30th days of pregnancy are significantly higher than in non-pregnant dogs, peaking around the 35th day, making it an important diagnostic indicator for pregnancy.
- Sensitivity: 93.10%
- Specificity: 96.69%
Materials Provided (5 Tests/Kit)
- 5 Vet Expert Rapid Test Canine Relaxin test plates
- 1 vial with diluent
- 5 sample tubes
- 5 tube caps
- 5 pipettes
- Stand
- Instructions for use
Precautions
- Diagnostic test for veterinary use only.
- Strict adherence to instructions is necessary for valid results.
- Test materials are for single use only.
- Do not touch the membrane in the result window.
- Do not use the test after the expiration date on the packaging.
- Do not use the test if the casing is damaged.
- Do not mix test materials from different Lot numbers.
- Handle the sample as potentially infectious.
- Dispose of all samples and materials in accordance with regulations.
- The test is not intended for use with whole blood.
- Recommended for use by trained personnel.
Storage
Store the test at a temperature of 2 ~ 30 °C. DO NOT FREEZE. Do not expose the test to direct sunlight. The test should remain in its sealed pouch until use.
Sample Collection and Preparation
The test should be conducted using canine serum or plasma. Prior to use, samples should be at room temperature (15-30°C) and only clean, non-hemolyzed samples should be used. If samples are not tested immediately, store at 2~8°C for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze at -20°C or lower.
- Plasma: Collect whole blood in a vial with an anticoagulant (heparin or EDTA), then centrifuge to obtain plasma.
- Serum: Collect whole blood in a vial without anticoagulant, allow it to clot, then centrifuge to obtain serum.
Test Procedure
- Remove the test from the foil package and place it on a flat, dry surface.
- Add 3 drops of diluent to the tube, followed by 3 drops of the sample (serum or plasma) using the provided pipette. Squeeze the vial base to mix, then attach the cap. If needed, place the vial in the stand.
- Invert the vial and add 3 drops of the mixture to the test well, avoiding bubbles and not adding liquid to the reading window.
- Read the result after 5 minutes.
Test Interpretation
- Negative Result – Only the control line (C) appears in the result window.
- Positive Result – Both the test line (T) and control line (C) appear in the result window, indicating the presence of relaxin. Even a faint line is considered positive.
- Invalid Result – If the control line (C) does not appear, the result is invalid. Retest with a new sample.
Test Limitations
Although the Vet Expert Rapid Test Canine Relaxin is highly accurate, a small rate of incorrect results may occur. Additional clinical tests are required if results are questionable. As with all diagnostic tests, a final clinical diagnosis should not rely solely on one test but should be based on a comprehensive assessment of clinical and laboratory findings. If a negative result is obtained but pregnancy is still suspected, collect a new sample 7 days later and retest. For more accurate results, consider another test at the appropriate time, such as a B-mode ultrasound.
