“Lympho” and “Cheesy gland” are common names used by livestock owners and veterinarians for caseous lymphadenitis (CL), a bacterial disease that affects small ruminants such as sheep and goats. A worldwide problem, CL is caused by Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis and once endemic on a farm is difficult to eradicate. Primarily a disease of economic importance in…
Testing for trichomoniasis is performed daily at the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL). If submitted properly, a sample can be accurately and efficiently tested, and results reported to the submitting veterinarian in a timely manner. All samples must be incubated 48 hrs (36-38°C) prior to rtPCR testing; please plan accordingly. Clearly indicate on…
The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) offers timely and accurate diagnostic tests for Tritrichomonas foetus, the parasite that causes bovine trichomoniasis, or trich. Trich causes abortions and infertility, and unless properly identified with diagnostic testing, can cost the state’s cattle producers millions. TVMDL employs the most current technology available utilizing real-time polymerase chain…
Analytical Testing Analytical testing capabilities for drug testing have evolved significantly over the years. Historically, techniques such as thin layer chromatography (TLC), gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC/MS) were used to detect drugs. More modern day tests include enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography – mass…
Canine Diagnostic Testing Canine Basic Thyroid Panel (T4, TSH, Free T4)The two most frequent thyroid disorders in dogs are primary hypothyroidism and euthyroid sick syndrome (repressed pituitary-thyroid axis due to non-thyroid illness). Additionally, some medications can induce hypothyroxinemia in dogs (i.e. phenobarbital, sulfa drugs, glucocorticoids). Other variables that may affect T4 and TSH include diestrus,…
IntroductionTick-Borne Relapsing Fever (TBRF) is caused by several species of bacteria in the genus Borrelia. Similarly to Lyme disease, which is caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, these bacteria are spread by ticks and cause non-specific clinical signs. In contrast to Lyme disease, TBRF Borrelia species are transmitted by soft ticks, which have different environmental and feeding…
Each test description in the online test catalog lists the proper sample submission, including collection container and shipping instructions. Follow the chart below and submit the sample in the correct tube. Serum Plasma or Whole Blood Zinc Trace Material
Click to Skip: Autolysis | Cautery Artifact | Freezing Artifact | Crush Artifact | Sponge Artifact Pathologic artifacts are any structures or features that are not normally present in the living animal. Some are minor, easy to distinguish from normal or diseased tissue, and/or do not interfere with the pathologists’ ability to provide an accurate…
Canine Vaccine Panel (ELISA)This test detects antibodies to both canine parvovirus and canine distemper virus. This assay is utilized as a screening tool for vaccination status only, not determination of infection. Results are reported as “positive” or “negative”; a negative result indicates an animal should be re-vaccinated. Canine Distemper & Parvovirus Antibody Titer Panel (IFA…
Late summer is when the West Nile virus (WNV) poses the greatest threat to the health of horses in the United States. It’s important for veterinarians to educate horse owners concerning the prevention, detection and accurate diagnose of WNV. Yearly, TVMDL tests between 500 and 1,000 horses for West Nile virus. In 2016, TVMDL confirmed…