TVMDL offers a range of tests to detect bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV). BVDV threatens the global cattle industry and negatively impacts producers in the form of decreased or lost productivity. Despite vaccines and an array of diagnostic tests, this expensive disease continues to impact cattle producers. About 70 to 90% of all infections go…
When horses ingest the cantharidin toxin through hay or alfalfa contaminated with “blister” beetles, the outcome is often fatal. Toxicosis occurs rapidly; as little as four grams of dried 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…
The collection of hair samples should be undertaken by a competent individual within a secure, contamination-free facility. Hair is a strong, stable tissue that is simple to collect, transport, and store. Data suggest hair is as effective a matrix as retinal tissue for detecting beta-adrenergic agonist drugs (i.e. clenbuterol, zilpaterol, ractopamine and albuterol). Please note…
Hemorrhagic disease in deer can be caused by either Epizootic Hemorrhagic disease (EHD) viruses or Bluetongue viruses (BT). If hemorrhagic disease is suspected, the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) advises to test for both EHD and BT viruses. Why does TVMDL recommend testing for both diseases? Correct diagnosis is the only way to…
Neonatal calf diarrhea also known as scours is a primary cause of illness and death in young, unweaned calves. Of the several viral, bacterial and protozoal intestinal pathogens associated with calf diarrhea, the most recognized pathogens include Cryptosporidium species, bovine coronavirus and bovine rotavirus group A1. Prevalence of infections by these pathogens varies due to…
Many Texans rely upon the weather for a variety of reasons. From crops to cattle, Texans are often at the mercy of Mother Nature. Although droughts can have a dire impact on animal health, floods can also contribute to widespread issues among animal owners. Excessive rainfall can contribute to mosquito-borne diseases, toxic plants, dermatologic conditions,…
The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) offers digital cytology to account-holding clients. Digital cytology provides rapid evaluation of photos taken with microscope cameras or smart phones or whole slide imaging (WSI). This service provides an official report and cytologic interpretation, within one hour of submission during business hours. To enhance this service, submission…
Digital parasitology offers convenient evaluation of photos taken with microscope cameras or smart phones. Please use the following standard protocols for accurate and consistent diagnostic results. Fecal Float Procedure Image acquisition Submission of images Best Quality 40x Objective 40x Objective 40x Objective Poor Quality Out of Focus Dropped condenser (poor microscope setting) Zoomed in (cannot…
This assay utilizes rtPCR technology on E. coli isolates recovered from ruminant samples. Samples are recovered by the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) bacteriology section to further characterize the potential of the isolate to be participating in the current patient clinical syndrome. The significance of the detected genes should be interpreted with the…
Hair Sample Collection Preparation The collection of hair samples should be undertaken by a competent individual within a secure, contamination-free facility. The purpose of hair sampling is to collect a usable cross-section of hair to test for prohibited substances. Collection Supplies Collecting the Sample Samples should be stored at room temperature and protected from direct…