testing and diagnosis
Antigen Testing
Antigen testing of the urine is currently considered the most accurate and reliable method for Blastomycosis testing for dogs. Thankfully it is also non-invasive as it requires a urine sample, and sometimes a blood sample as well.
Unfortunately, this testing is not performed everywhere so a sample of your dog's urine will have to be shipped from your vet to a lab, which can increase the turnaround time for results.
X-Rays and Ultrasounds
Diagnostic imaging may help confirm a Blastomycosis infection.
Cytology - looking at cells under a microscope.
Cytology is the microscopic examination of cells. This can be done when there are samples available such as examining fluid draining from a skin lesion.
treatment
Treatment Timeline - Months, not days.
Treatment for Blastomycosis will take time and can be expensive. It is not unusual for antifungal medications to be given for 6 months or more. Often your veterinarian will keep your pet on the medication until there are three tests in a row that show zero levels. This is because there is a chance of a relapse if blasto is not completely eliminated from your pet. Some studies estimate there is a 20% chance of relapse.
Give your pet the best chance for success by following the treatment instructions as closely as possible, continuing until there are no clinical signs of the infection.