Brucella abortus / suis (CF) [Referral]

Detection of antibodies to Brucella abortus and Brucella suis, the causative agents of brucellosis, by complement fixation (CF).

2 mL serum

Collect serum from clotted blood in a non-additive tube (e.g. plain red top or serum separator). When possible, transfer clear serum off the clot into a new tube. Blood and plasma are not acceptable samples for this test. Excessively hemolyzed samples are not acceptable for this test.

Glass or plastic tube with no anticoagulant additives. 

Label all samples with unique identifiers. For multiple samples, number tubes consecutively using a permanent marker or adhesive label. Include a list of sample names/numbers or the Excel specimen import spreadsheet with submittal form. Place the tubes in consecutive, numerical order in cardboard boxes designated for tubes. Do not submit loose in bags. Use cold packs during hot weather, especially if shipping serum samples on the clot. Overnight shipping is recommended.

This test is performed at the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, IA. Prices listed for tests performed outside TVMDL may not include referral lab accession fees and are subject to change without notice. A processing and forwarding fee is added to all referral tests. Turnaround times vary depending on shipping time and the referral lab’s schedule. This test is primarily used for export testing or as a confirmatory test for samples which test positive by other methods (e.g. BAPA and FPA). TVMDL will screen all bovine and swine samples for brucellosis using the BAPA test unless specific export, sale, or entry requirements are indicated. In these cases, the submitting veterinarian should specify which tests are needed. Due to USDA’s Brucellosis Eradication Uniform Methods and Rules, all samples must be accompanied by either VS Form 4-33 or a VS Form 4-54, as appropriate.