Streptococcus equi Multiplex Real-Time PCR and Bacterial Identification Panel

This panel includes detection and differentiation between Streptococcus equi subsp. equi, the causative agent of strangles, and S. equi subsp. zooepidemicus by real-time PCR and identification of these bacterial pathogens by culture.

One or more of the following:

• 1-3 mL guttural pouch washing
• 1-3 mL pharyngeal wash
• 1-3 mL nasal secretion
• nasopharyngeal swab
• draining lymph node swab
• 1-2 g fresh lung/respiratory tissue

Fresh samples provide the most accurate results.

Sample should be aseptically collected. Fixed tissue (e.g. in formalin) should not be used.

Two samples are required:

• For PCR – preferred type of swab is polyester or Dacron with a plastic shaft submitted in a sterile container (e.g. red top tube) with a drop or two of saline. Swabs submitted in bacterial transport media (e.g. gel, Ames charcoal, etc.) are not suitable for PCR testing due to inhibitory effects of the media.
• For bacterial culture – do not add saline, or broth to fresh tissue. Place swabs for bacterial culture in bacterial transport media.

Sealed, leak-proof container (plastic bag, tube, etc.)

Label all samples. Ship overnight on cold packs in an insulated container.

This panel is performed M-F in the Bacteriology and Molecular Diagnostics Sections in either Canyon or College Station.  Turnaround time is 2-7 days (1-4 days for rtPCR and 2-7 days for bacterial identification).