Again this October, the Animal Health Diagnostic Center (AHDC) observed an increase in the number of equine Anaplasma phagocytophilum positive PCR test results.  Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease caused by the intracellular bacteria Anaplasma phagocytophilum and carried by the Ixodes tick or "the black-legged tick". The AHDC offers Anaplasma phagocytophilum PCR testing for Anaplasma alone or as part of the Equine Fever of Unknown Origin PCR Panel.  A large animal hemogram (complete blood count) can also identify Anaplasma phagocytophilum bacteria on a blood smear. The Anaplasma phagocytophilum IFA  is an antibody titer that can be performed as well. EDTA whole blood can be submitted for the Anaplasma phagocytophilum PCR and the hemogram, and serum for the Anaplasma phagocytophilum IFA.  Three samples are required for the Fever of Unknown Origin PCR Panel, (EDTA whole blood, feces and a respiratory sample).  Please see each individual test for more information.