New Hampshire   

  Veterinary Diagnostic 

Laboratory     

                    Kendall Hall, 129 Main St.                     University of New Hampshire

    Durham, NH  03824    Tel: (603) 862-2726    FAX: (603) 862- 0179

       

                   

Serology

 

 

 

 

 

     The serology section of the NHVDL performs a variety of serological tests.  The most requested tests include Coggins or ELISA test for EIA, K9 Heartworm, Feline FIP, K9 Brucellosis and Bovine Brucellosis.  With the exception of EIA, BLV and CAE/OPP, most serology results are reported the day they are received.  EIA, BLV and CAE/OPP are reported in 24-48 hours.

 Avian Mycoplasma testing pictured above

 

 

 
   
   

 

 

 

        Coggins Testing

 

    Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) is caused by a single stranded RNA virus.  Chronic disease is characterized by weight loss, depression, weakness, edema and reduced hematocrit values, platelet counts and hemoglobin.  The majority of horses infected with EIA virus do not have clinical symptoms.

    Federal law prohibits interstate travel of known positive animals.  State control measures usually include euthanasia or permanent identification and lifelong quarantine of at least 200 yards from any other Equidae.

    Transmission is mechanical when insects transfer blood from a positive horse.  The horsefly is considered a more significant vector because it transfers larger amounts of blood and virus than other vectors such as the mosquito or black fly.  Other means of transmission include surgical equipment, stomach tubes, syringes and tack that has been contaminated with fresh blood.  The infectivity of EIA virus in thought to diminish within hours in the environment.

    Laboratories and technicians who perform tests for equine infectious anemia must be accredited by the Veterinary Services Division of the USDA.  In order to receive and maintain this accreditation, laboratories must satisfactorily perform an initial proficiency test and annual check tests.  Accredited laboratories are also required to adhere to strict federal guidelines in performing and reporting tests on individual animals.

    At the NHVDL there are two methods of testing for the EIA virus.  These tests include the Agar Gel Immunodiffusion (AGID) test and the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) test.

 

 

 

 

AGID Test ELISA Test
Type of Test Agar Gel Immunodiffusion Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent assay 
Cost $5.00 $20.00
Turn Around Time 24-48 hours 1-2 hours
Where it's Accepted "Gold Standard" accepted in all states and Canada  
Sample 1-2ml serum 1-2ml serum
     

 

Check with individual state/regulations as far as shipping requirements.  In some states the expiration of a EIA test can vary (90days, 6 months, 1 year).