Results 1–141 of 141 for "toxic."
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Review the range: Cattle and horse owners encouraged to be aware of potentially toxic plants
...rtheastern, and eastern Texas. Although the vegetation of the plant is not toxic, the seeds contain toxic amino acids. Singletary pea’s seeds are of most concern for horse owners. Horses tend to be the most sensitive species and experience neurological issues, such as stringhalt gait, once seeds are ingested. Situational plant toxicosis In addition to the plants that commonly grow in Texas, Barr also warns of certain situations that may cause plan...
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Multiple goats diagnosed with senna plant toxicosis
...through Arizona and southward into Mexico. All parts of a senna plant are toxic, although the relative toxicity of foliage and seed varies somewhat from species to species. All species except twinleaf are relatively unpalatable when green and are more often eaten once dry for the winter. Senna plants are toxic to all species tested, with an unidentified toxin that causes disruption of mitochondrial power gradients in myocytes. In cattle, the larg...
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Polytetrafluoroethylene Toxicosis (TeflonTM Toxicity)
...ith polytetrafluoroethylene-coated heat lamp bulbs. These gases are highly toxic to the epithelium of the deep airways and endothelium of the blood capillaries. Birds exposed to these toxic fumes may show difficult breathing, wheezing, gasping, weakness, depression, or anxious behavior but often birds are found dead in their cages. A diagnosis is usually made combining clinical history with birds found acutely dead or in severe respiratory distres...
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Don’t let your pet pick their poison: Stay vigilant of potentially toxic sources this New Year’s Eve
...dn’t end after the fireworks show. Firework debris can also be a source of toxicity to pets. Aside from the toxic sources of fireworks, some pets may be scared by loud noises and in turn, attempt to escape their enclosures. Each year many pets go missing or injure themselves during firework shows. Plants Holiday favorites, such as poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly can lead to various health issues if ingested by a pet. Anything from plant leaves t...
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Pet owners should be vigilant of potentially toxic sources during the holidays
...dn’t end after the fireworks show. Firework debris can also be a source of toxicity to pets. Aside from the toxic sources of fireworks, some pets may be scared by loud noises and in turn, attempt to escape their enclosures. Each year many pets go missing or injure themselves during firework shows. Plants Holiday favorites, such as poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly can lead to various health issues if ingested by a pet. Anything from plant leaves t...
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The passing of Dr. John Reagor, Veterinary Toxicologist Emeritus
...Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) as the agency’s toxicologist for 50 years. During his time at TVMDL he garnered a national reputation for his expertise of various toxins. He led TVMDL’s toxicology section to become one of the best in the country and helped develop assays that have saved the lives of countless animals. 50 years of selfless service Dr. William Sippel, TVMDL’s first director, invited Reagor to become one of...
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Toxicology Evaluation (Digital)
Learn more about TVMDL’s Digital Toxicology Service then submit your specimens using the submission form for digital toxicology evaluation.
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Nitrate toxicity in a herd of cattle
...g on an irrigated wheat pasture with a fertilizer system, elevated nitrate toxicity to the top of the differential list. Furthermore, nitrate toxicity would fit with the history of a sudden death loss rather than pneumonia, which would likely not cause a sudden death loss without any prior clinical signs in some of the animals. TVMDL has a rapid test for nitratesthat can be performed on ocular fluid, urine, serum and water. In this case, ocular fl...
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Salt Toxicity in Broilers
...s of vacuolation in the cerebellar white matter and cerebrum (see Fig. 1). Toxicology analysis on five brain samples revealed high levels of sodium in all of them, with a range from 8,810 ppm to 14,300 ppm. Sodium levels above 7,600 ppm in the brain of chickens are considered toxic. For more information on this case, contact Center Resident Director Dr. Senties-Cue. To learn more about TVMDL’s test offerings, visit tvmdl.tamu.edu or call 1.888.646...
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Pyrrolizidine Alkaloid Toxicity in a mature brangus cow
...ge. Unfortunately, the only appropriate response to pyrrolizidine alkaloid toxicity is to prevent further ingestion of plants containing these alkaloids. References: Bildfell, Rob. “Overview of Pyrrolizidine Alkaloidosis.” Merck Manual, Merck & Co., Inc., October 2013, merckvetmanual.com/en-ca/toxicology/pyrrolizidine-alkaloidosis/overview-of-pyrrolizidine-alkaloidosis. Joaquín Tamariz, et al. The Alkaloids: Chemistry and Biology, Volume 80; Hans-...
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Avoid a night of fright: Dog owners encouraged to be aware of potentially toxic seasonal items
...at option for little ghouls and goblins, Campbell warns of their potential toxicity for some dogs. Small amounts of raisins can lead to kidney damage. Similar fruits, like grapes and currants, also have the same effect. In addition, Campbell warns that Halloween spirits, of the liquid variety, are also a potential source of toxicity as alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, depression of the central nervous system, coma, and death in dogs. Decorati...
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Bovine Syndromic Diagnostic Plans
...Clinical Pathology CS MTWRF Heavy Metal Panel (ICP/MS) 10 g liver 1-4 days Toxicology CS TR Toxicology Quantitation (GC/MS) rumen contents, liver, forage, hay 1-5 days Toxicology CS MTWRF Chemistry Profile – Ruminant 0.5 mL serum 1 day Clinical Pathology CS MTWRF CBC – Livestock 1 mL EDTA blood + blood film 1 day Clinical Pathology CS MTWRF Hemoparasite Examination (Wright-Giemsa Stain) 1 mL EDTA blood, blood film 1 day Clinical Pathology CS MTWRF...
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Copper Toxicity in Show Animals
...oses of individual supplements, can cause excess copper levels to build to toxic levels quickly. Signs of intoxication include discolored urine, anemia, and death. Once clinical signs of intoxication occur, treatment is not effective. When feeding show sheep or goats, be sure to consider all sources of copper being fed to the animals and use supplements with extreme caution. If the supplement contains copper, the safest course of action is probabl...
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Exercise caution prior to exhibition: Copper toxicity in show animals
...oses of individual supplements, can cause excess copper levels to build to toxic levels quickly. Signs of intoxication include discolored urine, anemia, and death. Once clinical signs of intoxication occur, treatment is not effective. When feeding show sheep or goats, be sure to consider all sources of copper being fed to the animals and use supplements with extreme caution. If the supplement contains copper, the safest course of action is probabl...
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Cytoxic necrotizing factor 1 gene (CNF1) detected in E. coli isolated from a kitten lung
Cytoxic necrotizing factor 1 gene (CNF1) detected in E. coli isolated from a kitten lung By Cheryl Maguire, DVM A one-month-old, Ragdoll kitten was presented for necropsy at the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) in College Station after passing away subsequent to hospitalization for respiratory illness. The kitten was part of a large commercial breeding operation where multiple kittens were experiencing similar clinical s...
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Toxicology Evaluation (Microscopy)
Identification of components and toxic substances, such as plants and plant parts, algae, insects, or bait material.
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Sodium Ion Toxicosis in Cattle
Sodium Ion Toxicosis in Cattle Travis Mays, Analytical Chemistry Section Head Approximately 40 head of Hereford cows were grazing on 12 sections of land with oil production activity present. In one particular section, four to five cows were found dead within 12-24 hours. Another cow was observed by the owner to be shaking and trembling, had fallen and gotten up, fell a second time and became laterally recumbent. This animal was euthanized, necrop...
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Arsenic toxicosis in two calves
Arsenic toxicosis in two calves By Randi Gold, VMD, PhD, DACVP and Cat Barr, PhD, DABT Two hundred and forty straight stocker cattle were on a wheat and grass pasture with access to old barns filled with moldy hay, chemicals, fertilizers, and other substances. Six percent of the animals reportedly died within a 24-hour period. Two 7-month-old calves were necropsied on site and were noted to have melting abdominal fat, hemorrhage inside the cardia...
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Possible Eprinomectin toxicity in a calf
Possible Eprinomectin toxicity in a calf Travis May, MS, PhD A two-month-old, 150-pound, Brahman-cross heifer calf was observed with neurologic signs following application of what was believed to be a permethrin-based insecticide. The calf died following symptomatic treatment. Fresh and fixed tissue samples were submitted to the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) for testing. A portion of fresh brain was extracted and anal...
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Small Ruminant Syndromic Diagnostic Plans
...y metal intoxication Iodine deficiency +/- Brassica plants Nitrate-nitrite toxicity Toxic plants Recommended initial testing for fetus & placenta TestSamplesTurnaround TimeSection LaboratorySchedule Histopathology Tissues in 10% NBF 2-5 days Histopathology CAN CS MTWRF Abortion Panel - Livestock Bacterial (Culture): includes trichomonas, campylobacter, brucella, and listeria Fetal stomach contents, fetal tissue, placenta 10 days Bacteriology...
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Beetles found in alfalfa hay
...ratory (TVMDL) for identification. TVMDL’s toxicology section can identify toxic and non-toxic beetles using microscopic examination. The beetles submitted were identified as Tiger beetles (Cicindelidae sp.) (Figure 1). Tiger beetles are characterized by having large, carnivorous mouth parts (Figure 2) and a flattened abdomen (Figure 3). Tiger beetles do not produce cantharidin and are not considered toxic. Figure 1. Tiger beetle (Cicindelidae sp....
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March 20-26: National Animal Poison Prevention Week
...tance, the best strategy is for pets to never have the chance to encounter toxic sources. TVMDL offers several sources of education regarding toxic sources. View each link to learn more about a particular source. For more information on Handouts Fumonisin Diagnosing Toxic and Nutritional Conditions Cyanide and Nitrate in Forage Guide for Collecting Liver Samples to Characterize Liver Disease Digital Toxicology Services Case Studies and Articles Te...
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Analytical Chemistry Section Overview
...verview of Toxicology Services microscopic identification of toxic plants, toxic baits, toxic algae pesticides, herbicides, petroleum hydrocarbons, ionophores nutritional testing (trace minerals and vitamins) heavy metals (lead, arsenic) cantharidin (blister beetles) anticoagulant rodenticides mycotoxins in feed (aflatoxin and fumonisin) nitrates and prussic acid in forage and hay urolith analysis (calculi ID) therapeutic drug monitoring (potassiu...
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Case Study Library: Bovine
...cattle affected? Testing Options for Anaplasma marginale in cattle Arsenic toxicosis in two calves Pyrrolizidine Alkaloid Toxicity in a mature brangus cow Bovine thrombotic meningoncephalitis Anaplasmosis in cattle Diagnostic Guidance: Rumen Acidosis (Grain Overload) Cryptosporidiosis in cattle Diagnostic Guidance: Postmortem Atlanto-occipital Cerebral Spinal Fluid Sampling in Large Animals The role of diagnostic testing in establishing bovine vac...
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Equine Syndromic Diagnostic Plans
...ed blood 1-3 days Toxicology CS MTWRF Vitamin E (HPLC) 10 g liver 1-7 days Toxicology CS R Vitamin E (HPLC) 2 mL serum 1-7 days Toxicology CS R Sarcocystis neurona (Western blot) 2 mL serum - Referral EDS KY - Sarcocystis neurona SAG 2/4/3 ELISA 1 mL serum and 1 mL CSF in red top tubes - Referral EDS KY - Sarcocystis neurona PCR (CSF) 1 mL CSF in EDTA tube - Referral EDS KY - Sarcocystis neurona PCR (brain) brain tissue - Referral UCDavis rtPCR -...
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Gopher bait with anticoagulant detected in horses
...roviding treatment for large animals with the antidote for anticoagulant intoxication can be challenging, therefore the suggestion was made to submit samples to determine which of the horses in the group actually consumed the bait product. TVMDL’s toxicology section offered the further suggestion that 24 hours should be allowed post-exposure to ensure that enough time had elapsed for the substance to be present in the serum. Five of six horses had...
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Diagnostic Guidance: Keeping cattle hydrated and healthy
...velop instability or seizures, or may die. This is known as water (salt) intoxication. Salt intoxication does not mean the animal is getting an excessive load of salt, but rather the sodium concentration is increasing in the body because the animal is deprived of adequate water. If cattle become dehydrated, they need to drink water immediately – but only in small amounts. If the trough is empty, put a few inches of water in the bottom. Let all cat...
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TVMDL Sections
...e Analytical Chemistry Section encompasses Toxicology and Drug Testing. In Toxicology, specimens are analyzed to diagnose poisonings and toxins. Specimens analyzed may include animal tissues, ingesta, blood, urine, plants, feed, hay, water, baits, fertilizer, etc. Toxicology staff can also identify poisonous plants and nutritional deficiencies of trace metals and vitamins. The Drug Testing Laboratory (DTL) was established in 1987 in response to th...
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Chlorinated hydrocarbon and arsenic poisoning in cattle
...fresh liver using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). A toxic amount of arsenic (77.66 micrograms per gram dry weight) was measured in the liver by ICP-MS. Further testing to identify the source of the arsenic (organic vs. inorganic) was not pursued. A toxic chemical screen was performed on the rumen content using gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Heptachlor, chlordane, and nonachlor were all detected in the rumen...
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Coffee senna linked to cattle deaths in Texas
...ested, but are usually unrewarding once cattle are down, and the degree of toxicity is related to the amount of plant material consumed. Besides coffee senna, there are other toxic members of the Senna genus in Texas. Twin-leaf senna (Senna roemeriana) grows on calcareous soils west of I-35, and Lindheimer’s senna (S. lindheimeriana) grows farther south and west. Sicklepod senna (S. obtusifolia) grows along the gulf coast. Cattle are affected with...
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MSMA (monosodium methyl arsenate) is Not for Pasture Use
...weeks is necessary to prevent further exposure. Thanks to its water solubility, the MSMA will be removed from the forage by drenching rain. For more information about this case, contact TVMDL Toxicologist Dr. Cat Barr. To learn more about TVMDL’s toxicology test offerings, visit tvmdl.tamu.edu or call the College Station laboratory at 1.888.646.5623....
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“Hardware Disease” in Backyard Chickens
...foreign objects in the gizzard, the primary rule out was zinc heavy metal toxicity followed by other heavy metal toxicity (e.g. lead). Both cases provide solid examples of the affects foreign metal objects can have on birds. For more information about these two cases, contact Dr. Martin Ficken, TVMDL-Gonzales Resident Director. To learn more about avian testing options, visit tvmdl.tamu.edu or call 1.888.646.5623. Figure 1 – Gizzard containing me...
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Suspected Anticoagulant Bait Confirmed to be Bromethalin
...d many others, visit tvmdl.tamu.edu or call 1.888.646.5623. References https://www.aspcapro.org/resource/shelter-health-poison-control/treating-bromethalin-toxicosis https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/rodenticide-poisoning/bromethalin...
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Marijuana detected in multiple dogs
.... 2013, 28:8-12. 4 Spiller K. Lost in the weed: Marijuana toxicosis in the age of legalization. VetBloom, 6 June 2017, http://blog.vetbloom.com/ecc/marijuana-toxicosis/. 5 Donaldson C. Marijuana exposure in animals. Toxicology Brief. 2002, 437-439....
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Travis Mays, MS, PhD
...nd routine diagnostic testing such as the Equine Pre-Purchase Drug Screen. He is also knowledgeable and trained to provide information related to mycotoxins, toxicities associated with forages and grasses, poisons and many other toxicology-related questions. He also serves as a subject matter expert in microscopic identification of toxic plants in GI contents. He is the Analytical Chemistry Section Head, a section that comprises drug testing and t...
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Chronic lead exposure in flock of backyard chickens
...ference values for egg yolks, therefore no comparisons were made. Although toxic levels of lead, toxic to the chicken, were not present in the liver sample or any egg, levels above what are considered normal, background levels for food, were present in the liver and each egg. The family was contacted and it was highly recommended the chickens no longer be used for egg production and consumption. If raising chickens for eggs was desired, it was rec...
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Larson recognized as recipient of 2022 Director’s Excellence Award
...ed me with her drive to learn as much as she can about everything we do in toxicology.” Aside from her knowledge and skills, Larson is noted for having a positive attitude, no matter the task. She is known for enthusiastically assisting her coworkers and willingness to tackle new challenges. “She always has a smile on her face and her positivity is contagious,” Analytical Chemistry Section Head Dr. Travis Mays, said. “She is a wonderful role model...
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Education Library
...Verify Results Using Your Smartphone Toxicology Fumonisin Facts Diagnosing Toxic and Nutritional Conditions Guidelines for Collecting Liver Samples to Characterize Liver Disease Digital Toxicology Services Avian Metal & Mineral Data (72865) Black Buck Metal & Mineral Data (76495) Bovine Metal & Mineral Data (72866) Canine Metal & Mineral Data (72877) Caprine Metal & Mineral Data (72878) Cervid (White tailed, Black tailed and Mule Deer) Mineral Dat...
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Case Study Library: Avian
...ified in a penguin Depluming mites in birds Aspergillosis in a Pacific Eider Bordetellosis (Turkey Coryza) in Turkeys Facial nodular cellulitis in broiler breeder pullets Polytetrafluoroethylene Toxicosis (TeflonTM Toxicity) Carcinomatosis in laying chickens Spironucleosis (Hexamitiasis) in Quail Cerebrospinal Nematodiasis (Visceral Larval Migrans) in Birds...
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Nitrate Poisoning in Cattle
...ants once concentrations exceed 1% in hay or forage. Plants can accumulate toxic levels of nitrates when they are stressed. Ruminants are susceptible to nitrate poisoning as microorganisms in the rumen reduce nitrates to nitrites. The nitrite anion causes vasodilation and oxidizes ferrous iron in hemoglobin to the ferric state forming methemoglobin, which cannot accept molecular oxygen. As the percentage of methemoglobinemia rises, oxygen starvati...
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Diagnostic guidance: Cantharidin poisoning in horses
...beetles may contain fatal levels of cantharidin. Cantharidin is extremely toxic and fast-acting, quickly affecting a horse’s ability to function. All blister beetles carry cantharidin and 200 species occur in the United States. The striped blister beetles present in the southwestern states are the most problematic, as they feed on alfalfa blooms. Time is of the essence in diagnosing and treating a horse with cantharidin poisoning. A typical toxic...
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Is that a laboratory in your pocket? How TVMDL’s telemedicine services are giving clients one foot in the laboratory, even at a distance
...gital services was digital toxicology. Similar to its predecessor, digital toxicology offers clients the option of submitting images of potentially toxic forages for identification. Although this service doesn’t decrease turnaround time for results, it does remove the barrier of shipping forages to the laboratory. Currently, TVMDL is developing its newest digital service: digital parasitology. This service is a joint venture between TVMDL and the...
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Quantitating Cantharidin levels in a blister beetle
...ent. The data suggests that short-winged blister beetles are probably less toxic than the three-stripe blister beetle. Their effect on animal and human communities is dependent on feeding and swarming habits. The method TVMDL uses to test animal clinical specimens for cantharidin exposure is much more sensitive than the method employed on these beetles. Poisoned animals (usually horses on alfalfa) generally have cantharidin concentrations in serum...
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Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Lab on the front lines of pet food recalls
...es from veterinarians who need testing on a client’s behalf, or from other toxicologists and laboratories. “We mostly serve the veterinarians who send us samples from their clients,” she said. “We in toxicology also work with producers in some instances, but we rely on the veterinarians who can examine the animals to determine what diagnostic actions need to be taken.” TVMDL always encourages veterinarian involvement, as the veterinarians can best...
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Bromethalin poisoning in a feline
...chondrial oxidative phosphorylation. It is quickly metabolized to DMB, the toxic metabolite. Clinical signs of intoxication can include lethargy, hind limb weakness, muscle tremors, hyperthermia, hyperexcitability, focal or generalized seizures, and paralysis. Onset of clinical signs can occur within 24 hours of ingestion. Diagnosis of bromethalin intoxication is only available in post-mortem samples. A minimum of 1 gram of brain, adipose and/or l...
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Plant Identification
Identification of both toxic and non-toxic plants.
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Forms
...ng Forms Clients with existing TVMDL accounts may choose to submit digital toxicology and digital cytology using the TVMDL Mobile phone app. Learn more about how to download the TVMDL Mobile app for your phone by clicking here. Digital Toxicology Form Digital Cytology Form Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM) Form TVMDL accepts samples taken from animals suspected to be infected with rabies. Samples will be forwarded to the Texas Department of State H...
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Bacillary hemoglobinuria in feeder cattle
...ratory (TVMDL) for culture, histopathology, Leptospira spp. qPCR, and histotoxic clostridium FA. Culture of the liver and kidney was negative for pathologic organisms. Histopathology revealed mild to moderate chronic fibrosing portal hepatitis with intralesional fluke eggs and adult flukes. Liver histopathology also showed acute centrilobular to midzonal hepatic necrosis with bile stasis. Molecular diagnostics on the urine, kidney, and liver were...
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Possible Methamphetamine Exposure in a Dog
...rine, pseudoephedrine, methylxanthines, or strychnine can cause similar central nervous system stimulation and must be included in a differential diagnosis list for methamphetamine toxicosis. Reference: Zengyang P and Zhang X. Methamphetamine intoxication in a dog: case report. BMC Veterinary Research. 2014, 10:139....
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25-Hydroxyvitamin D [Referral]
Identification of vitamin D toxicity or deficiency. This assay will detect metabolites of cholecalciferol (rat poisons, vitamin D supplements); it will not detect toxicity due to calcitriol (Rocaltrol) or calcipotriene (Dovonex - anti-psoriasis cream).
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Vitamin D Profile [Referral]
Measurement of Vitamin D to determine toxicity or deficiency. The profile includes PTH, ionized calcium, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D. This assay will detect metabolites of cholecalciferol (rat poisons, vitamin D supplements), but it will not detect toxicity due to calcitriol (Rocaltrol) or calcipotriene (Dovonex - anti-psoriasis cream).
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Clostridium spp. (FA)
Detection of 5 histotoxic clostridial species by the fluorescent antibody method.
Targets include chauvoei, novyi/hemolyticum, sordellii, and septicum.
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Possible chocolate poisoning in a dog
...n of the tissues did not reveal a specific cause of death, nor evidence of toxicity, including aflatoxicosis. Hepatic changes indicative of glycogen-type vacuolation, characteristic of steroid-induced hepatopathy, were observed. Liver was extracted for the drug screen using a deproteinization procedure followed by enzyme hydrolysis. The extract was then subjected to a purification procedure using solid phase extraction (SPE). Testing was performed...
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Forensic pathology/legal necropsy examinations
...ed for additional testing such as histopathology, microbiological studies, toxicology, etc. Forensic necropsies take several hours to complete. Not every animal death requires a forensic necropsy. Many times, a regular necropsy is sufficient to diagnose the cause of death in animals. TVMDL sees many clients wanting to choose a forensic/legal necropsy option when their animal had a sudden death. Sudden death is defined as unexpected death occurring...
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Case Study Library: Ovine/Caprine
...Q fever abortion diagnosed at TVMDL Multiple goats diagnosed with senna plant toxicosis Abortion of a sheep fetus due to Cache Valley Fever Virus Avoid the Madness of Rabies Submissions Copper Toxicity in Show Animals Rabies in a Sheep Pathologic Diagnosis of Coccidiosis in Goats Enterotoxemia in sheep and goats Polio Syndrome in ruminants Listeriosis in a goat doe...
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TVMDL Mobile app
...bmission process with abbreviated submission form. Save clinic and contact information to allow for fast submission of each new sample. Quick results allow for rapid clinical intervention and treatment. Digital Toxicology submission: Submit images of potentially toxic plants, mushrooms, baits, and other substances Easy submission process with abbreviated submission form Removes hassle of shipping forages...
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Strongylus vulgaris associated with liver damage and neurologic symptoms in a gelding
...tified as Strongylus vulgaris. The liver lesion was attributed to either a toxic or ischemic hepatopathy of undetermined etiology. The cause of the clinical signs was attributed to hepatic encephalopathy. Since only fixed tissues were submitted, further toxicologic testing could not be pursued. Of ancillary interest in this case was the finding of cranial mesenteric arteritis with the nematode Strongylus vulgaris embedded in the lesion. According...
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Bacillary hemoglobinuria in a cow
...(“Port wine” urine– hemoglobinuria). Fluorescent antibody test for 5 histotoxic clostridial specieswas positive for Clostridium novyi/hemolyticum. AqPCR test forLeptospirawas negative. Microscopic lesions in the liver consisted ofmultifocal to confluent areasof severe, acute coagulation necrosis characterized by hepatocyte swelling, cytoplasmic hypereosinophilia, karryorhexis,and pyknosis. The areas of hepatic necrosis were surrounded by a thick...
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Beetle Identification (Microscopy)
Identification of toxic blister beetles by microscopic examination.
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Bromethalin (LC/MS)
Detection of desmethylbromethalin, the toxic metabolite of bromethalin, by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry.
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Cantharidin (LC/MS)
Detection of cantharidin, the toxic chemical produced by blister beetles, by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to feed samples.
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Coffee Senna Poisoning in Cattle
...appearance of the muscle lesion was consistent with that of coffee senna intoxication. Coffee Senna (Senna occidentalis) is primarily found in east and south Texas and extends east to Florida and north to Virginia. It usually grows in sandy or loamy disturbed soil, often in colonies around pens or shade trees rather than uniformly distributed over a pasture. The plant has linear seedpods that are 4 to 6 inches long, tend to be erect and contain nu...
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Possible Wilted Maple Poisoning in Mare
...rlichiosis, methemoglobinemia, equine infectious anemia, liver failure and toxicity, and the samples came with a specific request to look for Heinz bodies. The following parameters were elevated when measured in the severely hemolyzed serum: BUN, 63.1 (9-20 mg/dl); creatinine, 3.1 (0.9-1.7 mg/dl); total bilirubin, 7.1 (0.7-2.6 mg/dl); direct bilirubin, 1.0 (0.1-0.3 mg/dl); and creatine kinase, 672 (93-348 U/L). Values for AST and GGT were also ele...
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Dogs will eat anything, won’t they?
...ownfall. For more information about this case, contact Dr. Cat Barr, TVMDL toxicologist, at 1.888.646.5623. To learn more about TVMDL’s test offerings, visit tvmdl.tamu.edu or call one of our four laboratories. References Walter SL, 2002: Acute penitrem A and roquefortine poisoning in a dog. Can Vet J 45(5):372-374. Young KL, Villar D, Carson TL, et al., 2003: Tremorgenic mycotoxin intoxication with penitrem A and roquefortine in two dogs. J Am Ve...
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Cyanobacteria: No winter break this year
...abaena sp. These species all tend to produce microcystins, which are hepatotoxic to all species. In a recent case, clinical history noted a group of dogs playing in a pond thick with Microcystis colonies and a few Oscillatoria colonies. History noted the owners hosed all the dogs off with water until the water ran clear and all the algae was gone. The owners removed all the dogs from the pond area and contacted their veterinarian out of precaution...
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Strychnine detected in a puppy
...nd seizures occur, followed by suffocation and death. Strychnine is a very toxic substance, with an approximate lethal dose of 0.75 mg/kg body weight in a dog.1 Figure 1. Green-dyed milo seeds (gopher bait) Figure 2. Strychnos nux-vomica seeds For more information about TVMDL’s strychnine test visit tvmdl.tamu.edu or call 1.888.646.5623. References: 1 Gupta, Ramesh C. “Non-anticoagulant rodenticides: Strychnine.” Veterinary Toxicology,...
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Photosensitization: Causes and testing options
...be circulated. When phylloerythrin reaches the skin, it will initiate a photoxic reaction, causing severe skin burns and sloughing. Causative Toxic Plants Primary photosensitization: Bishop’s weed (Ammi majus) furocoumarin Rainlily (Cooperia pedunculata) fungal elaboration Dutchman’s breeches (Thamnosma texana) psoralens St. John’s Wort (Hypericin) Buckwheat (Fagopyrin) Coal tar derivatives such as tetracyclines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon...
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Blackland Income Growth organization visits TVMDL
...g sections where they were given an overview of each section’s primary testing services by TVMDL Veterinary Diagnostician Dr. Guy Sheppard and viewed commonly submitted samples and received an overview of TVMDL’s toxicology services from Toxicologist Dr. Cat Barr. For more information about visiting TVMDL, visit tvmdl.tamu.edu or call one of the agency’s full service laboratories in College Station or Canyon....
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Case Study Library: Feline
...wo Cats Diagnosed with Hepatic Amyloidosis and Secondary Hepatic Rupture Cytoxic Necrotizing Factor 1 Gene (CNF1) Detected in E. coli Isolated from a Kitten Lung Leishmaniasis Diagnosed in 9-Year-Old Cat Feline Toe Biopsy Reveals a Bigger Problem Cat Diagnosed with Mammary Gland Fibroadenomatous Hyperplasia Cat Diagnosed with Feline Asthma Atypical Mycobacteriosis in a Cat Diagnosing Feline Heartworms Histopathologic Diagnosis of Feline Herpesviru...
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Know your pasture! Lantana poisoning in a group of steers
...zation and edema. All of this pointed toward a secondary photosensitization. Fragments of Lantana camara were found in the rumen content, and the plant was later found in the pasture. To learn more about this case, contact Dr. Cat Barr, Veterinary Toxicologist at the College Station lab. For more information on TVMDL’s test catalog, visit tvmdl.tamu.edu. Photomicrograph depicting bile ductule proliferation. Swollen hepatocytes with pale cytoplasm....
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Burn-pile leads to arsenic poisoning
...ressing or becomes aggressive could be lead poisoned. Whole blood (EDTA) is the best sample to submit for diagnostic testing. To learn more about this case, contact Dr. Cat Barr, Veterinary Toxicologist at the College Station laboratory. For more information about TVMDL’s test catalog and services, visit tvmdl.tamu.edu or call 1.888.646.5623....
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Disease Surveillance
...CVM) with large-scale investigations of CVM-regulated products, such as animal feed or drugs. Our Commitment to Vet-LIRN TVMDL is committed to offering an additional level of extensive subject matter expertise and physical capabilities in toxicology, pathology, and microbiology to Vet-LIRN. TVMDL serves as a reference center for other state laboratories for some relevant tests therefore our addition to the Vet-LIRN actually means surveillance incr...
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Routine Diagnostics
...Testing Endocrinology Molecular Diagnostics Necropsy Parasitology Serology Toxicology Virology Ever keeping the customer in mind, we strive to make our services easy to use and valuable. Affordable testing options Convenient, discounted overnight and next day shipping options Import/export coordinators, import permits Several bilingual staff 24/7 online access to test results and invoices Robust quality assurance system ensures consistent, accurat...
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Sodium (FAAS) [Referral]
Measurement of sodium by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS).
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Arsenic (ICP/MS)
Measurement of arsenic by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to tissue and feed specimens.
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Cadmium (ICP/MS)
Measurement of cadmium by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to tissue and feed specimens.
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Cobalt (ICP/MS)
Measurement of cobalt by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to tissue and feed specimens.
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Copper (ICP/MS)
Measurement of copper by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to tissue and feed specimens.
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Lead (ICP/MS)
Measurement of lead by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to tissue and feed specimens.
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Manganese (ICP/MS)
Measurement of manganese by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to tissue and feed specimens.
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Metal & Mineral Panel (ICP/MS)
Measurement of metals and minerals by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry.
Targets include manganese, cobalt, copper, iron, molybdenum, selenium, zinc, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and thallium.A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to tissue and feed specimens.
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Molybdenum (ICP/MS)
Measurement of molybdenum by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to tissue and feed specimens.
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Selenium (ICP/MS)
Measurement of selenium by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to tissue and feed specimens.
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Thallium (ICP/MS)
Measurement of thallium by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to tissue and feed specimens.
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Trace Mineral Panel (ICP/MS)
Measurement of trace minerals by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry. Targets include copper, cobalt, iron, manganese, molybdenum, selenium, and zinc. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to tissue and feed specimens.
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Zinc (ICP/MS)
Measurement of zinc by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to tissue and feed specimens.
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E. coli Toxin Typing – Companion Animal & Equine (rtPCR)
Detection of E. coli toxin and virulence genes commonly associated with pathogenic strains of E. coli: F4/K88 fimbrial adhesins, STa enterotoxin, LT enterotoxin, CNF1 and CNF2 cytotoxic necrotizing factors, Stx1and Stx2 Shiga like toxins, and eaeA intimin in E. coli isolates by real-time PCR (rtPCR).
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E. coli Toxin Typing – Ruminant (rtPCR)
Detection of E. coli toxin and virulence genes commonly associated with pathogenic strains of E. coli: F5/K99 fimbrial adhesins, STa enterotoxin, cs31a adhesins, CNF1 and CNF2 cytotoxic necrotizing factors, Stx1and Stx2 Shiga like toxins, and eaeA intimin in E. coli isolates by real-time PCR (rtPCR).
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Pesticide Screen (GC/MS)
Detection and identification of a variety of chemicals including organophosphates, organochlorines, carbamates, industrial pollutants, polycyclic aromatics, aliphatic hydrocarbons, miscellaneous pesticides, some natural products and some drugs using gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Samples are screened using multiple instrument libraries containing mass spectra for thousands of compounds. Positive identification of a suspect sample is made by comparing sample mass spectra with that of a certified reference standard.
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Glyphosate (GC/MS)
Detection of glyphosate and aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) by gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC/MS).
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TVMDL joins Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network
...t-LIRN its extensive subject matter expertise and physical capabilities in toxicology, pathology, and microbiology along with one of the largest caseload volumes in the nation,” Akey said. “TVMDL serves as a reference center for other state laboratories for some relevant tests therefore its addition to the Vet-LIRN actually means surveillance increases not just for one state, but many.” In addition to furthering TVMDL’s impact, joining Vet-LIRN wi...
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TVMDL group authors article for Texas Equine Veterinary Association
...ropsy Assistant Section Head Pam Ferro, PhD, Molecular Diagnostics Section Head Sonia Lingsweiler, Bacteriology Assistant Section Head Melanie Landis, DVM, MBA, Microbiology Veterinary Diagnostician Cat Barr, PhD, ABT, Veterinary Toxicologist Travis Mays, MS, PhD, Analytical Chemistry Section Head Carlos Rodriguez, Serology Assistant Section Head Narayan Paul, DVM, MS, PhD, Bacteriology Section Head To view this article, visit texasequineva.com or...
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Diagnostics of a disaster: Animal disease concerns during floods
...imal owners. Excessive rainfall can contribute to mosquito-borne diseases, toxic plants, dermatologic conditions, and many other diseases. The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) offers testing and diagnostic consultations to assist animal owners and practitioners with many issues contributed to flooding. This post is the first in a series that cover the various animal health concerns contributed to flooding. Here are some o...
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Diagnostics of a disaster: Insect-borne disease concerns during floods
...imal owners. Excessive rainfall can contribute to mosquito-borne diseases, toxic plants, dermatologic conditions, and many other diseases. The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) offers testing and diagnostic consultations to assist animal owners and practitioners with many issues contributed to flooding. This post is the second in a series that cover the various animal health concerns contributed to flooding. Here are some...
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Diagnostics of a disaster: Skin and foot concerns during floods
...imal owners. Excessive rainfall can contribute to mosquito-borne diseases, toxic plants, dermatologic conditions, and many other diseases. The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) offers testing and diagnostic consultations to assist animal owners and practitioners with many issues contributed to flooding. This is the final post in a series that cover the various animal health concerns contributed to flooding. Here are some o...
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Zinc contamination in serum samples
...tube when serum is collected. When testing for zinc, either deficiency or toxicity, TVMDL recommends clients allow serum samples to clot in plastic or glass tubes without contact with rubber stoppers that are not royal blue. Once fully clotted, the client should centrifuge the sample and remove the serum to a second all-plastic or royal-blue-top trace mineral tube for shipping. This will ensure the zinc value detected accurately reflects the stat...
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Hepatocytoptropic lymphoma in a Great Dane
...e, highly aggressive form of T-cell lymphoma, arising from a subset of cytotoxic T cells. The neoplasm is rapidly progressive, and dogs often die within 24 hours of presentation. In reported cases, patients presented with thrombocytopenia, hypoalbuminemia, hyperbilirubinemia and cholestasis. Other affected organs may include spleen, lung, and kidney. A related form of lymphoma, arising from the same type of T cell, is hepatosplenic lymphoma and in...
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Three TVMDL professionals present at Southwest Veterinary Symposium
...for representing the agency at this year’s SWVS. Dr. Cat Barr, Veterinary Toxicologist Feed-Associated Toxin and Nutritional Testing, Ruminant Focus Frequent Plant Poisonings, Ruminant Focus Mindy Borst, Clinical Pathology Assistant Section Head Proper Parasitology Procedures Is it a Parasite? Common Parasites, Pseudoparasites, and Missed Diagnoses in Small Animals Is it a Parasite? Common Parasites, Pseudoparasites, and Missed Diagnoses in Large...
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Five employees honored with Director’s Excellence Awards
...osario, Poultry Programs Administrator | College Station Bailey Schulz, Administrative Coordinator | College Station Professional Dr. Guy Sheppard, Veterinary Diagnostician | College Station Technical Malerie Larson, Toxicology Technician | College Station Student Sydney Buckner, Necropsy Student Assistant | Canyon Learn more about TVMDL by visiting tvmdl.tamu.edu or calling one of the agency’s four laboratory locations....
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Find a Speaker
Do you need a speaker for a conference, a workshop or a meeting? The experts at TVMDL are ready to help. Please browse the topics below to find an expert who meets your needs or interests. Feel free to contact the expert directly to arrange a presentation. Accreditation Antibiotic Resistance Avian / Poultry Diseases Bacteriology Biosecurity & Biosafety Biosurveilance Cancer biology Careers in Veterinary Diagnostics Clinical Pathology Companion An...
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Urolith Composition (FTIR)
Determination of the chemical composition of uroliths by fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy.
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Ethylene Glycol (GC/MS)
Detection of ethylene glycol by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.
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Glycolic Acid (GC/MS)
Detection of glycolic acid, the primary metabolite of ethylene glycol, by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.
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Herbicide (GC/MS)
Detection of a variety of herbicides by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.
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Petroleum (GC/MS)
Detection of petroleum hydrocarbons by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.
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Anticoagulant Rodenticides (LC/MS)
Measurement of anticoagulant rodenticides by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. Targets include warfarin, bromadiolone, brodifacoum, diphacinone, chlorophacinone, coumatetralyl, difenacoum, difethialone, coumachlor, and dicoumarol.
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Carbamate Insecticides (LC/MS)
Detection of carbamate insecticides by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. Targets include aldicarb, carbaryl, carbofuran, methomyl, and oxamyl.
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Ionophores (LC/MS)
Detection and quantitation of a variety of ionophore compounds by liquid chromatography / mass spectrometry.
Targets include monensin, salinomycin, narasin and lasalocid.For feeds and feed additives, target compound and expected value are required before testing can begin.
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pH (pH Electrode)
Measurement of pH levels in rumen.
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Arsenic – Inorganic (Reinsch)
Detection of arsenic salts by the qualitative Reinsch test. Targets include calcium arsenate, lead arsenate, and lead arsenate.
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Chloride (Colorimetric)
Measurement of chloride by colorimetric analysis.
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Bromide (UV/Vis)
Measurement of bromide ion. This test is useful for therapeutic drug monitoring on animals being treated with potassium or sodium bromide.
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Cyanide (Colorimetric)
Detection of cyanide by colorimetric analysis.
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Iron – Feed or Tissue (ICP/MS)
Measurement of iron in feed or tissue samples by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to tissue and feed specimens.
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Nitrates – Fluids (Colorimetric)
Measurement of nitrates and nitrites in fluids by colorimetric analysis.
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Mycotoxin (LC/MS) [Referral]
Mycotoxin screen by liquid chromatography- tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). This screen is for corn, grains, silage, forage, hay, DDGs, soybean meal, dry pet food, and TMR. Mycotoxins tested: Aflatoxin B1, B2, G1 and G2, T-2 toxin, Ochratoxin A, and Sterigmatocystin at 20 ppb (0.02 ppm). Fumonisin -B1, -B2, -B3, 15-ADON, 3-ADON, DAS and DON (vomitoxin) at 200 ppb (0.2 ppm). Zearalenone at 100 ppb (0.1 ppm).
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Water Analysis – Routine [Referral]
Measurement of ions (calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium), sulfates, chloride, pH, conductivity, and total dissolved salts (TDS) in water.
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Water Analysis – Routine & Heavy Metals [Referral]
Measurement of ions (calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium), sulfates, chloride, pH, conductivity, and total dissolved salts (TDS), as well as metals (zinc, iron, copper, manganese), and heavy metals (arsenic, barium, chromium, cadmium, fluoride, nickel lead) in water.
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Water Analysis – Routine & Metals [Referral]
Measurement of ions (calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium), sulfates, chloride, pH, conductivity, and total dissolved salts (TDS), and metals (zinc, iron, copper, manganese) in water.
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Protein – Hay or Forage [Referral]
Measurement of the total protein content a hay or forage sample.
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Bone Marrow Fat [Referral]
Measurement of the percent bone marrow fat to assess the nutritional status of an individual animal. Recommended for diagnosis of malnutrition / starvation.
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Avermectins (LC/MS)
Measurement of avermectins, including abamectin, doramectin, eprinomectin, ivermectin, moxidectin and selamectin, by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry.
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Toxin Quantitation (GC/MS)
Follow up test for TVMDL’s toxin screens to provide quantitation for carbamates, cantharidin, ethylene glycol, glycolic acid, or metaldehyde. Measurement is performed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.
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Drug Screen – Cannabinoids (LC/MS)
Detection of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), their major metabolites, and a variety of synthetic cannabinoids by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry.
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Strychnine (LC/MS)
Qualitative detection of strychnine using liquid chromatography – tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
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Heavy Metal Panel – Avian (ICP/MS)
Measurement of heavy metals by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry. Targets for avian samples include lead, arsenic, cadmium, zinc, and thallium. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to tissue specimens.
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Heavy Metal Panel – Mammalian (ICP/MS)
Measurement of heavy metals by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry. Targets for mammalian species include lead, arsenic, cadmium, and thallium. If zinc testing is desired, please see Metal & Mineral Panel. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to tissue specimens.
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Heavy Metal Panel – Non-Animal (ICP/MS)
Measurement of heavy metals by inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry. Targets for feed samples include lead, arsenic, cadmium, and thallium. A $10.75 sample preparation fee will be added to feed specimens.
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Feed Tag Test (Proximate Analysis) [Referral]
Measurement of nutritional components in feed to include moisture, dry matter, crude fat, crude protein, crude fiber, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, ash, calculated total digestible nutrients (TDN), net energy for maintenance (NEm), net energy for gain (NEg), and net energy intake (NEl).
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Vitamin A – Serum [Referral]
Measurement of Vitamin A in serum samples.
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Vitamin A – Tissue [Referral]
Measurement of Vitamin A in liver samples.
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Vitamin E – Serum or CSF [Referral]
Measurement of Vitamin E in serum or cerebrospinal fluid samples.
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Vitamin E – Tissue [Referral]
Measurement of Vitamin E in liver samples.