Hundreds of samples arrive daily at the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) for testing. Testing accuracy often depends on submission of the proper specimen for the assay, particularly for molecular diagnostics. To ensure the appropriate sample is submitted for molecular diagnostics at TVMDL, please consult the website for specific details associated with the…
The collection of feather samples should be undertaken by a competent individual within a secure, contamination-free facility. Ideally, the collector should wear gloves when handling feathers. Collection Supplies Collecting the Sample Before collection, make sure all scissors intended for collection are clean. It is recommended the collector use an alcohol wipe to clean scissors before…
A forensic or legal necropsy as defined by the purposes of the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) is a necropsy done to attempt to determine the cause of death in cases where the death is known or suspected to be non-natural, there are suspicious circumstances, or there is evidence of foul play. They…
Fumonisin B1 is the most prevalent of several fumonisin mycotoxins (B1, B2, B3) produced by Fusarium molds in corn. Corn contamination can occur at very high levels when permissive environmental conditions coincide with vulnerable points in corn kernel production. Equine Leukoencephalomalacia (ELEM) Horses and other equids, as well as rabbits, are the most fumonisin-sensitive species.…
Due to the sensitive nature of fungal cultures, it’s critical samples are submitted properly. The following guide offers instructions to assist clients in submitting the most appropriate sample for culture. When submitting samples for fungal culture, please include pertinent history, including any anti-fungal treatment or pathology results. As a reminder, fungal cultures can take up…
Evaluation of increased liver enzyme activity or poor liver function tests can be a daunting task due to the variety of etiologies that can cause liver disease in small animals. Collection of fine needle aspirates for cytologic evaluation or larger tissue samples for histologic examination are often indicated for diagnosis. Several important guidelines should be…
Hemorrhagic disease is a viral disease caused by either the epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus or the bluetongue virus. These viruses are closely related, but genetically distinct. In North America, hemorrhagic disease is seen primarily among white-tailed deer and occasionally in mule deer, black-tailed deer, elk, pronghorn antelope, and bighorn sheep. Wild deer as well as…
Diagnosing animal diseases frequently requires a veterinarian or a technician to collect specimens in the field. This can be difficult without having the right tools on hand. For these occasions, the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory suggests assembling a necropsy field kit. The kit should include the following tools and materials, all of which…
Prior to diagnostic testing, it’s important to determine what factors would lead to the most comprehensive assessment of an animal’s condition. Each case must be evaluated individually in order to establish the most practical diagnostic testing route. Collection Guidelines What is an ideal serum sample? Since most serologic testing utilizes serum, blood should be collected…
The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) offers a variety of diagnostic tests that may be used as part of the breeding soundness examination of a mare. While this handout discusses bacterial culture, TVMDL also offers a uterine biopsy and cytology service. Uterine culture is one of the more frequently requested tests to assess…