Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system to fight disease. They can be found in blood, urine, and other body fluids.
There are many different types of antibodies that play a role in protecting your dog from infections and diseases. Antibodies can be categorized into five major groups: IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG and IgM. Each type provides unique functions within the immune system.
In dogs, antibodies are commonly used as a way of diagnosing certain diseases. Antibodies may be detected in the urine of pregnant dogs, for example, although this test is only considered reliable if it’s done before mid-gestation. Antibodies can also be found in the blood of dogs with certain cancers or autoimmune diseases like hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia.
Antibody testing can also be used to detect exposure to viruses such as parvovirus and distemper virus.