PCR TESTS

Nasal and/or caudal pharyngeal swabs can also be used for detection of CIV nucleic acid by PCR tests.⁴⁰ PCR testing is fast and inexpensive, and is now offered by several reference and university diagnostic laboratories.

In addition, PCR tests have high sensitivity and specificity, and are more likely to show positive results when there are low levels of virus present, such as in later stages of infection.

False-negative results can occur if the timing of sample collection is not appropriate.