We are delighted to have joined forces with Volition Veterinary to provide practices in the UK & Ireland with the Nu.Q® Vet Test.

We understand that as veterinary professionals, you may have some questions about the Nu.Q® Vet Test and how it can benefit your clients.

In this blog, we will address some of the frequently asked questions to help you gain a better understanding of the test that can aid in the early detection of some underlying cancers in healthy, asymptomatic dogs.

How do I order the test?

The test can be ordered on PATHPORT, our online test ordering submission platform or by sending a sample directly to our laboratory.

What are the sample requirements?

Before sample collection, patients should be fasted for a minimum of 4 hours.

Step 1) Draw 2-5ml of blood from the peripheral or jugular vein

Step 2) Fill EDTA tube. Gently invert 2-3 times

Step 3) Spin the EDTA at 1500-3000rcf (4000rpm) for 10 minutes and separate the EDTA plasma within 1 hour of sampling

Step 4) Decant into a non-clot activator tube (eppendorf) taking care not to disturb the buffy coat and send to the lab chilled but NOT FROZEN within 24 hours. Please label the tube as EDTA plasma

Sampling must be carried out Monday – Wednesday. Please include a clinical history with this test.

Please note that highly haemolysed or lipaemic samples should not be used for this test and will be rejected by the lab.

When should a dog be tested?

The Nu.Q® Vet Test is ideal for regular wellness checks, particularly in senior dogs aged 7 years and older. For breeds with a higher cancer risk, dogs as young as 4 years can benefit from this test.

Breeds like Labrador Retrievers, French Bulldogs, and Golden Retrievers, to name a few, can greatly benefit from the preventive insights this test provides.

What does the Nu.Q Vet Cancer Screening Test Measure?

The Nu.Q® Vet Test quantifies the circulating nucleosome levels in the blood. When cancer is present, these nucleosomes—originating from the cancer cells—enter the bloodstream. Our test captures these using antibodies tailored specifically to detect nucleosomes.

Are there any risks to having this test done?

The Nu.Q® Vet Test requires a peripheral blood draw. This means blood can be taken from any peripheral site, including, but not limited to, the jugular vein. The test poses minimal risk to the dog, and no recovery time is necessary afterwards. For further information and scientific research please visit: https://veterinary.volition.com/veterinarians

What if I have questions about the results?

Our local friendly and helpful team are available for you to speak to quickly. You can speak directly to the pathologists who reported on your case. They’ll share their opinion on the diagnosis using their experience and insight to help you get the right answer.

Contact us today

Still have questions?

The VPG Partnership Team can help to answer any other questions that you have. Book a meeting with a member of our team today.

Nu.Q® is a registered trademark of VolitionRx Limited and its subsidiaries. The Nu.Q® Vet Cancer Test is supplied by Belgian Volition SRL.