Retrospective analysis of the effects of Blastomyces antigen concentration in urine and radiographic findings on survival in dogs with blastomycosis

Abstract

Background: The Blastomyces antigen concentration in urine (BACU) test is used to diagnose blastomycosis and monitor treatment in dogs. It is unknown if a higher BACU is associated with shorter survival. Objectives: To determine if the magnitude of BACU before treatment is associated with survival in dogs with blastomycosis. Animals: Fifty-two dogs with blastomycosis. Methods: Retrospective case review. BACU, radiographic lung severity (RLS) score (0-4 scale), and survival time up to 1 year after diagnosis were obtained through medical record review of dogs with Blastomyces dermatitidis. Results: The overall survival was: discharge, 87%; 1 week, 85%; 2 months, 74%; and 6 months, 69%. BACU correlated with RLS score (rs = 0.33, P =.02). BACU and RLS scores were lower in survivors to 2 months than nonsurvivors (average BACU difference of 2.5 ng/mL, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.2-4.8 ng/mL, P =.04; median RLS difference of 2; range, 0-4, P =.02). Dogs with BACU <5 ng/mL and dogs with mild (0-1) RLS scores had a greater proportion surviving than those with BACU >5 ng/mL (P =.03) and dogs with severe (3-4) RLS scores (P =.04). All dogs with a BACU <5 ng/mL or mild RLS score were alive at last follow-up (median, 365 days; range, 44-365 days). In all, 68.1% of other dogs survived to 2 months (95% CI, 54.8%-84.8%). Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Dogs with lower BACU and RLS scores have improved survival; however, it is unclear what specific cutoffs should be used for prognosis.