Why is it important to perform cancer screening tests?
When it comes to cancer in dogs, knowledge is your greatest ally. The Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test is not just another test on the market—it’s a tool whose effectiveness is backed by scientific research. It provides the time needed to act and supports a proactive approach to care, enabling data-driven decision-making and allowing you to manage patients with greater confidence.
The Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test quantitatively measures the concentration of circulating nucleosomes in the blood. During tumor development, nucleosomes originating from cancer cells enter the bloodstream. Our test detects them using nucleosome-specific antibodies.
Nucleosomes are bead-like structures composed of DNA wrapped around a histone protein core.
When cancer is present, nucleosomes originating from cancer cells enter the bloodstream.
They can be detected using nucleosome-specific antibodies.
The Nu.Q® Cancer Test quantitatively measures the concentration of circulating nucleosomes in the blood.
The test requires only 0.5 ml of plasma, which can be obtained by centrifuging 2–5 ml of EDTA blood.
Each stage has its significance—from healthy cells to metastatic cancer. The Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test fits into this timeline as a proactive turning point, transforming “early diagnosis” from a crisis moment into an informed dialogue between veterinarians and pet owners.
peer-reviewed and published case series study (September 2022) involving 662 dogs
With a specificity of 97%, the Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test can detect:
Samples taken not on an empty stomach, especially those taken less than 4 hours after eating, may show elevated nucleosome concentrations, which may cause a healthy dog to be misclassified as moderate or high risk. If elevated levels are observed and there is suspicion that this is due to recent feeding:
Schedule a repeat test within 2-4 weeks of the first test.
On the day of the repeat test, ensure that the dog has been fasting for at least 4 hours prior to sampling.
If the concentration remains elevated even after taking these precautions, interpret the result in conjunction with the patient’s entire clinical history and any relevant findings.
At least 0.5 ml of plasma is required to perform the test.
Typically, collecting 2-5 ml of blood yields 0.5-1.5 ml of plasma, which meets the test requirements.
However, larger volumes are preferred in case of emergencies, such as the need to repeat the test.
We recommend using only plasma for the Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test.
Serum samples are not accepted.
Delaying centrifugation may result in a false increase in nucleosome concentration in the sample.
If more than 60 minutes have passed since collection, it is best to collect a fresh blood sample. Ensure that the blood has been centrifuged at 1600 x g for 10 minutes within 60 minutes of collection.
Mild to moderate hemolysis does not affect the accuracy of the test.
In tests performed on humans, hemoglobin concentrations up to 500 mg/dL did not affect the accuracy of the results. However, for samples showing hemolysis of grade 3+ or higher, it is recommended that a new sample be collected.
Ensure that plasma is sent in a sterile tube without additives (no anticoagulants, no clotting activators).
Low-risk Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test results are consistent with those seen in healthy animals over 1 year of age, in both sexes.
Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test results indicating low risk are consistent with results observed in healthy animals over 1 year of age, in both sexes.
Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test results indicating a high-risk level are consistent with an increased risk of cancer in healthy animals over 1 year of age, in both sexes.
Review the patient’s history for any previously existing conditions.
Check, the patient for any masses, enlarged lymph nodes, or signs of pain.
Check, whether the patient shows an elevated white blood cell count indicative of inflammation.
Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test results in the elevated-risk range may have multiple causes.
If the sample was collected from a fasting patient and the patient is otherwise clinically healthy, the test should be repeated in 2–4 weeks, ensuring a 4-hour fasting period.
If the sample was not collected from a fasting patient and the patient is otherwise clinically healthy, the test should be repeated at the next possible opportunity, ensuring a 4-hour fasting period.
* If the patient’s clinical history is unclear, contact us to consult the complex case with a specialist veterinarian before performing invasive or costly procedures.
** If, after retesting, the Nu.Q® result remains elevated, review the actions for the high-risk level before performing more costly or invasive procedures.
If, after retesting, the Nu.Q® result returns to the low-risk level, instruct the owners on how to recognize early signs of cancer and schedule a repeat test in 6 months.
Currently, the Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test is validated only for dogs. However, we are continuously working on developing and improving each test, so please stay updated on future validation announcements for additional species.
The Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test is ideal for regular health monitoring, especially in older dogs over 7 years of age. For breeds at high risk of developing cancer, it is recommended to start testing younger dogs, from 4 years of age. Breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, French Bulldogs, and Golden Retrievers may particularly benefit from preventive screening using this test.
Concurrent illnesses: As a screening tool, the Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test is suitable for clinically healthy, asymptomatic patients during routine check-ups. It is important to note that certain conditions, such as immune disorders or injuries, may affect the test result. Therefore, when considering patients with recently diagnosed illnesses or clinically unstable patients, these factors should be carefully evaluated before performing the test.
Medications: Based on our data, commonly used medications, such as trazodone and NSAIDs (e.g., Rimadyl or carprofen), do not affect the accuracy of the test. However, for glucocorticoids such as prednisone, it is recommended to discontinue steroid administration for 7–10 days prior to testing.
If there are any doubts or additional questions regarding a patient’s condition or potential drug interactions, consult our team! Contact us via online consultation or by phone.
Certain medications may potentially affect NU.Q® results by influencing nucleosome concentration. In relation to lymphoma and other hematopoietic malignancies, medications such as prednisone and dexamethasone may reduce their concentration in plasma. If the patient is taking prednisone, it is recommended to discontinue the drug 7-10 days prior to sample collection. If dexamethasone is being administered, an interval of at least 48 hours should be maintained prior to testing.
Current research suggests that controlled conditions, such as chronic inflammation or hypothyroidism, do not affect the results of the Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test. However, it is recommended that the patient’s full health profile be taken into account when interpreting the results.
Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test quantifies the concentration of circulating nucleosomes in the blood. In the case of neoplasia, nucleosomes (derived from cancer cells) enter the bloodstream. Our test detects them using nucleosome-specific antibodies.
The Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test is primarily a diagnostic tool and is not intended to predict the course of cancer. It is important to understand that a “high” Nu.Q® score does not indicate advanced cancer or predict a shorter survival period.
With 97% specificity, the Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test is able to detect a significant percentage of systemic cancers. For example, the test statistically identifies lymphoma in 77% of cases, hemangiosarcoma in 82% of cases, and histiocytic sarcoma in 54% of cases (Fig. 1). (alternatively: For example, the test identifies lymphoma with a detection rate of 77%, hemangiosarcoma with a detection rate of 82%, and histiocytic sarcoma with a detection rate of 54% (Fig. 1).
Research is ongoing to determine the type of cancer based on the test.
The Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test is non-invasive and only requires a peripheral blood sample. This means that blood can be drawn from any peripheral vein, including the jugular vein. Given the simplicity of the blood collection procedure, the test poses minimal risk to the dog and no recovery time is required after the test.
Samples taken not on an empty stomach, especially those taken less than 4 hours after eating, may show elevated nucleosome levels, which may cause a healthy dog to be misclassified as moderate or high risk. If elevated levels are observed and there is suspicion that this is due to recent feeding:
If nucleosome levels remain elevated even after taking these precautions, interpret the result in conjunction with the patient’s entire clinical history and any relevant findings.
At least 0.5 ml of plasma is required to perform the test. Typically, collecting 2-5 ml of blood yields 0.5-1.5 ml of plasma, which meets the test requirements. However, larger volumes are preferred in case of emergencies, such as the need to repeat the test (Fig. 2).
Delaying centrifugation may result in a false increase in nucleosome concentration in the sample. If more than 60 minutes have passed since collection, it is best to collect a fresh blood sample. Ensure that the blood has been centrifuged at 1600 x g for 10 minutes within 60 minutes of collection.
Fig. 2 Photo showing the ideal color and volume of the sample after centrifugation and plasma extraction.
Comment: The plasma sample is clear, with no visible hemolysis. Such samples provide the best accuracy, reducing the risk of having to repeat the test.
We recommend using only plasma for the Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test. Serum samples are not accepted.
Mild to moderate hemolysis does not affect the accuracy of the test. In tests performed on humans, hemoglobin concentrations up to 500 mg/dL did not affect the accuracy of the result. However, for samples showing hemolysis of grade 3+ or higher, it is recommended to collect a new sample (Fig. 3).
Ensure that plasma is sent in a sterile tube without additives (no anticoagulants, no clotting activators).
Fig. 3 Photograph of samples with visible hemolysis or plasma discoloration
Comment: Mild to moderate hemolysis will not affect the accuracy of the test, but samples with severe hemolysis may produce false results.
In such cases, it is recommended that a fresh blood sample be collected to maintain the accuracy of the test.
Fig. 4 Photo showing a sample of average quality.
Comment: Despite the absence of hemolysis, such a sample is not preferred for testing.
Given the turbidity of the plasma, re-collection of blood should be considered to maintain test accuracy.
Results are usually issued within 3-7 business days of the sample being delivered to the laboratory.
We understand the importance of delivering results on time, so we appreciate your patience while waiting for them, while ensuring the accuracy of every test we perform.
Nu.Q® is a registered trademark of VolitionRx Limited and its subsidiaries. Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test is provided by Belgian Volition SRL.
