I wonder if there's a "tick panel" and if there isn't, there probably should be.
It's one of those titer issues. Confusing as hell.
Titers elevated due to just Exposure or diseased?
"the best method of diagnosing this disease is through testing of serum from the dog using an immunofluorescent antibody (IFA) test. Unfortunately, a positive test only indicates exposure. Still, in the presence of clinical signs or if the titer rises after treatment or stays consistently high, infection is strongly implied by the lab results.
Read more: Ehrlichia in dogs - VetInfo
Ehrlichiosis is caused by the rickettsial organism Ehrlichia canis.
http://www.vetinfo.com/derlick.htmlAnd all this stuff regarding treatment and testing changes as they learn more about it. ASK QUESTIONS and keep on asking them on this one.
The testing info on how and reading the results are like 5 pages long. The vet would probably have to make a phone call to one of the University's for clarification on testing and treatment.
MO is one the states that has the highest incidence according to the CDC albeit a human report but it shows the high presence of the tick and likelihood of contracting the disease.
It can lay dormant in the system for years and then rear its ugly head so IMHO just asking if you have seen a tick on your dog recently is kinda pointless, and to use this response from the owner to dismiss a tick disease, well maybe he should not have, seeing as acute fever is one of the 'big' symptoms of tick disease and especially when all the blood work comes back ok.
Certainly don't mean to to knock your vet, I know first hand that all vets can't know everything about everything! Especially since medical science is running at warp speed regarding diagnosis and treatment. We have to be proactive and help them sometimes!:W
We are praying for her. Let us know as soon as you find out something. Gretchen is very lucky to have you as an owner, looking out for her well being like you do! :C
