Why and When to Request Serum Amyloid A as anAddition to an Equine Blood Profile

摘要

Serum Amyloid A (SAA) is a major acute phase proteinand a sensitive marker of acute inflammation. SAAincreases rapidly by several hundredfold, peaking36 to 48 hours after initiation of infectious and acutenon-infectious inflammation. SAA has a short plasmahalf-life and decreases very quickly with diseaseresolution closely reflecting decreased inflammationand patient recovery. In contrast, fibrinogen is a minoracute phase protein and reaches a peak 3-6 days afterinitiation of acute inflammation and decreases moreslowly. It is important that veterinarians know when torequest SAA testing, as an addition to a routine bloodprofile.