EXPRESS: Multiplex Fluorescent Immunocytochemistry is a Complementary Test for the Diagnosis of Feline Infectious Peritonitis: A Diagnostic Clinical Trial.

MF-ICC is a complementary diagnostic test for FIP with superior accuracy compared to serology, RT-PCR, and A:G ratio.

This clinical trial evaluated multiplex fluorescent immunocytochemistry (MF-ICC) as a diagnostic tool for feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) in 84 cats (58 FIP-positive, 26 controls) at two academic veterinary teaching hospitals. MF-ICC uses antibodies against feline coronavirus and vimentin with nuclear staining to identify dual-expressing mononuclear cells. At a threshold of ≥1 dual-expressing cell, MF-ICC demonstrated 77% sensitivity, 81% specificity, 92% positive predictive value, and 53% negative predictive value. Notably, MF-ICC achieved the highest overall diagnostic accuracy (78%) compared to serology (75%), RT-PCR (69%), and serum A:G ratio (76%). The test performed better in effusion fluids than tissue samples. While MF-ICC is not a standalone diagnostic test, the authors conclude it provides complementary diagnostic value when used alongside RT-PCR and other minimally invasive tests to strengthen clinical suspicion for FIP diagnosis in individual patients.

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