Animal Health Diagnostic Center

Improving the health of animals, animal populations and wildlife


Business Hours - Monday-Friday: 8:00am to 5:00pm; Saturdays: 9:00am-1:00pm

Equine Diagnostic Plans and Panels

The following diagnostic plans have been developed primarily as an educational tool to assist the veterinarian in designing a complete, although not exhaustive, diagnostic strategy. To encourage veterinarians to select only the tests that are deemed clinically appropriate in each situation, the price of the diagnostic plan is not discounted from the sum of the individual test costs.

For the test groupings labeled as panels, there may be a discounted price versus the costs of the individual tests. Diagnostic plans and panels can be requested by writing the complete name as the test request. If appropriate samples are included all tests will be performed.

Antimicrobial susceptibilities for culture isolates are available upon request at an additional charge.

Print Plans and Panels

ACTH and Insulin

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
ACTH Baseline ACTHEQ
  • EDTA plasma (2 ml) in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.
Insulin Baseline INSEQ
  • EDTA plasma (2 ml) in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.

Notes

Ship chilled.

ACTH, Insulin and Leptin

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
ACTH Baseline ACTHEQ
  • EDTA plasma (2 ml) in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.
Insulin Baseline INSEQ
  • EDTA plasma (2 ml) in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.
Leptin LEPTIN
  • EDTA plasma (2 ml) in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.

Notes

Ship chilled.

Coagulation Panel, Large Animal

Panel Code: COAGPL

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Fibrinogen FIB
  • 2ml separated citrate plasma in plastic or siliconized glass tube (blue top tube and then separated and transferred)
Prothrombin Time PT
  • 2ml separated citrate plasma in plastic or siliconized glass tube (blue top tube and then separated and transferred)
aPTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time) APTT
  • 2ml separated citrate plasma in plastic or siliconized glass tube (blue top tube and then separated and transferred)

Notes

Ship chilled.

Dermatology Diagnostic Plan

All skin biopsy submissions should be accompanied by a Dermatohistopathology Submission Form.

Deep lesion

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Aerobic bacterial culture AER
  • (2) fresh skin biopsies in plain red top tube with 0.5ml sterile saline to keep moist (not wet)
  • +/- Swab from deep in tissue placed in aerobic transport media (Amies with charcoal)
Fungal Culture FUNGCM
  • (2) fresh skin biopsies in plain red top tube with 0.5ml sterile saline to keep moist (not wet)
  • +/- Swab from deep in tissue placed in aerobic transport media (Amies with charcoal)
Fungal KOH Fluorescent Stain FUNGKOH
  • Nails, skin scrapings or 10-12 hairs from border lesion
  • Fresh tissue or bodily fluids (systemic fungi/yeast)
  • Prepared slide
Gram Stain GRAM
  • (2) fresh skin biopsies in plain red top tube with 0.5ml sterile saline to keep moist (not wet)
Histopathology (biopsy) HISTO
  • Multiple formalin fixed skin biopsies.

Superficial lesion

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Fungal Culture FUNGCM
  • (1) hair and skin scraping for fungal culture and gram stain sent in a sealable paper envelope
Fungal KOH Fluorescent Stain  FUNGKOH
  • Nails, skin scrapings or 10-12 hairs from border lesion
  • Fresh tissue or bodily fluids (systemic fungi/yeast)
  • Prepared slide
Gram Stain GRAM
  • (1) hair and skin scraping for fungal culture and gram stain sent in a sealable paper envelope
Histopathology (biopsy) HISTO
  • Multiple formalin fixed skin biopsies.
Skin Scraping SSE
  • (1) skin scraping for ectoparasite identification in an escape proof, nonporous container

Notes

Deep lesion samples: Ship chilled and protect fixed tissue from freezing.

Superficial lesion samples: Ship at room temperature and protect from temperature extremes. Protect slides from formalin exposure.

DIC Panel, Large Animal

Panel Code: DICPL

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Antithrombin AT3
  • 2ml separated citrate plasma in plastic or siliconized glass tube (blue top tube and then separated and transferred)
D-dimer Quantitative DDIQ
  • 2ml separated citrate plasma in plastic or siliconized glass tube (blue top tube and then separated and transferred)
Fibrinogen FIB
  • 2ml separated citrate plasma in plastic or siliconized glass tube (blue top tube and then separated and transferred)
Prothrombin Time PT
  • 2ml separated citrate plasma in plastic or siliconized glass tube (blue top tube and then separated and transferred)
aPTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time) APTT
  • 2ml separated citrate plasma in plastic or siliconized glass tube (blue top tube and then separated and transferred)

Notes

Ship chilled.

Equine Abortion Fetal Tissue Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
(3) Aerobic Bacterial Culture AER
  • Submit 3 fresh tissue samples: placenta, lung, and stomach contents - labelled and individually bagged; for individual aerobic culture
Equine Arteritis Virus (EAV) FA EVAFA
  • Fresh tissue: placenta, liver, lung, kidney - labelled and individually bagged
Equine Herpesvirus PCR Panel EHVPNL
  • Fresh tissue: lung (preferred), placenta - use only if lung not available 
Histopathology HISTO
  • Formalin-fixed tissue: placenta, liver, lung, brain, adrenal, heart, thymus, small intestine, kidney, and fetal skin
(2) Leptospira PCR LEPTPCR
  • Submit 2 fresh tissue samples: placenta and fetal kidney preferred; stomach contents acceptable

Notes

Collect fetal heart blood, pleural fluid or abdominal fluid and place in red top tube for possible antibody serology testing.

If full necropsy desired, see Necropsy Testing.

Ship chilled and protect fixed tissue from freezing.

Placenta samples will be cultured as one of the 3 aerobic cultures and held for sufficient time to detect Nocardioform agents.

Consider adding: Virus Isolation Fresh tissue: placenta, liver, lung, brain, adrenal, heart, thymus, small intestine, and fetal skin - labelled and individually bagged

In abortions from Quarter Horses, Paints and Quarter Horse crosses, testing for glycogen branching enzyme disease should be added. Call for test information. There will be an additional fee for this testing.

*WNV testing recommended only during appropriate season: WNELPL: West Nile Virus (WNV) IgG/IgM Capture ELISA Combination. Serum from fetal heart blood. If not available, peritoneal, pleural, or pericardial fluid - in sterile red top tube. 
 

Equine Abortion Serology Panel + Selenium

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Equine Arteritis Virus (EAV) SN EVASN
  • 1ml maternal serum (separated)
Equine Herpesvirus-1 (Rhinopneumonitis) SN EHV1SN
  • 1ml maternal serum (separated)
Equine Herpesvirus-4 (EHV-4) SN EHV4SN
  • 1ml maternal serum (separated)
Equine Influenza Virus (EIV) HAI EIVHAI
  • 1ml maternal serum (separated)
Leptospira MAT, 5 standard serovars LEPTO
  • 1ml maternal serum (separated)
Selenium, whole blood SEL
  • Maternal EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube)
  • Maternal heparin whole blood (lavender top tube)

Notes

Ship chilled.

When acute and convalescent samples are/will be collected, for most serology assays they should always be tested in parallel, and paired results interpreted. If acute samples are submitted alone please indicated if all tests should be performed. If second, convalescent samples are later submitted, tests on both samples will be run in parallel and fees for both samples will be charged. To avoid testing acute samples twice, hold and submit with convalescent samples. If convalescent samples will not be collected, or when infectious abortion is strongly suspected due to history, immediate testing of acute sample may be warranted.

Equine Basic Workup

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Fecal Floatation FLOAT
  • Fresh feces from animals 3 days or older
Hemogram, Large Animal LA CBC
  • (2) air dried blood smears
  • 1ml EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube)
Large Animal Chemistry LA P
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube) or
  • Serum (separated)
Serum Amyloid A SAA VET
  • 1ml serum

Notes

Ship chilled except for slides which should remain at room temperature.

Equine Chronic Ill Thrift/Weight Loss Plan

Certain myopathies may also present as chronic ill thrift or weight loss, please see Equine Myopathy Panel for further testing strategy

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
ACTH Baseline ACTHEQ
  • 3ml EDTA plasma separated from cells and frozen within 4 hours
Insulin Baseline INSEQ
  • 3ml EDTA plasma separated from cells and frozen within 4 hours
ACTH Post TRH ACTHPOSTTRH1
  • 3ml EDTA plasma separated from cells and frozen within 4 hours
ACTH Pre TRH ACTHPRETRH
  • 3ml EDTA plasma separated from cells and frozen within 4 hours
Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) Virus c-ELISA EIAEL
  • 1ml serum
Fecal Floatation FLOAT
  • Fresh feces
Hemogram, Large Animal LA CBC
  • (2) unstained, unfixed, air-dried blood smears
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube)
Large Animal Chemistry LA P
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube) or
  • Serum (separated)
Lawsonia intracellularis qPCR LAWPCR
  • Feces, ileum, or tonsillar tissue
Peritoneal Fluid Cytology PTFE
  • 1ml peritoneal fluid in EDTA (lavender top tube); red top tube if culture anticipated plus 2-3 unstained smears.
Sand Recovery Analysis SAND
  • Feces (8-10 fecal balls)
Selenium, whole blood SEL
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube)
  • Heparin whole blood (green top tube)
Serum Amyloid A SAA VET
  • 1ml serum or plasma
Thyroid Panel, Equine THYPALLI
  • 2ml serum or plasma
Vitamin E in serum NDIK
  • 2ml serum

Notes

* Horses with EPM may present with asymmetrical muscle wasting or weakness – diagnostics to consider include Sarcocystis neurona EPM SAG 2,3,4 ELISA and Neospora hughesi ELISA. Both assays are referred to Equine Diagnostic Solutions.

* Cyathostomiasis (encysted small strongyle larval infection) may cause chronic ill thrift. In these cases the absence of strongyle eggs and larvae on fecal floatation does not rule out a diagnosis of cyathostomiasis.

* Lawsonia intracellularis, the causative agent of Equine Proliferative Enteropathy, effects horses in the weanling to yearling age range, from approximately 2 to 18 months of age. Rarely adult horses may be affected.

** For diagnosis of PPID if geriatric horses

*** Used to aid in the diagnosis of lymphoma

Please note that additional referral diagnostics to consider with this plan may include Caseous lymphadenitis, Hay Analysis, Thymidine Kinase and Lawsonia intracellularis IPMA. Visit our referral testing web page for referral lab contact information. Please contact the AHDC Veterinary Support Services team with any questions (vetsupport@cornell.edu, 607.253.3900).

Equine Complete Ophthalmic Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Aerobic bacterial culture AER
  • Aqueous humour in sterile red top tube (0.2-2.0ml)
  • Conjunctival or corneal swab in Amies transport media
Fungal Culture FUNGCM
  • Conjunctival or corneal swab in Amies transport media
Leptospira MAT, 5 standard serovars LEPTO
  • Serum (separated)
Leptospira PCR LEPTPCR
  • Aqueous humour in sterile red top tube (0.2-2.0ml)
Lyme Disease (Borrelia burgdorferi) PCR LYMPCR
  • Aqueous humour in sterile red top tube (0.2-2.0ml)
Lyme Disease, Equine Multiplex Assay EQLM
  • Serum (separated)
Parasite Identification PID
  • Conjunctival biopsy (in plain red top tube with 0.5ml saline)

Notes

Ship chilled except for slides should be kept at room temperature.

Equine Cryptorchid Panel

Panel Code: CRYPL

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Estrone Sulfate E1S
  • 1ml Serum (separated) or plasma
Testosterone baseline TE
  • 1ml Serum (separated) or plasma

Notes

Ship chilled.

Horses must be at least 3 years of age. If less than 3 years consider HCG or GnRH Response, Testosterone and see Large Animal Reproductive Tests for protocols.

Equine Diarrhea, Adult (Acute) Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Anaerobic Bacterial Culture ANAER
  • Fecal swab in anaerobic transport media
Clostridium difficile Toxins (A/B) CLDT
  • Feces refrigerated and less than 24 hours old or frozen
Clostridium perfringens Enterotoxin CLPT
  • Feces refrigerated and less than 24 hours old or frozen
Coronavirus PCR, Beta BCOR
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container
Fecal Flotation FLOAT
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container
Hemogram, Large Animal
Examination for blood parasites included 		LA CBC
  • (2) air dried blood smears
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube)
Large Animal Chemistry LA P
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube) or
  • Serum (separated)
Lawsonia intracellularis PCR LAWPCR
  • Feces (most common in 4-7 mo old foals but can occur in 3 mo to 13 mo old foals)
Potomac Horse Fever PCR EHRR
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube)
  • Feces
Potomac Horse Fever (PHF) IFA PHF
  • Serum (separated)
Salmonella culture SALM
  • Fecal swab in Amies transport media
  • Fresh fecal sample in sterile container (fill to line on container but do not overfill) or in ParaPak® transport media to assist with Salmonella recovery
Selenium, whole blood SEL
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube) or
  • Heparin whole blood (green top tube)

Notes

Ship chilled (keep feces for toxin testing frozen) except for ParaPak®, Port-a-cul™ and slides which should be kept at room temperature.

Equine Diarrhea, Adult (Chronic) Diagnostic Plan

Clinical cases of Lawsonia intracellularis are more often documented in horses between 2-18 months of age and rarely in adults.

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Fecal Flotation FLOAT
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container
Hemogram, Large Animal LA CBC
  • (2) air dried blood smears
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube)
Large Animal Chemistry LA P
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube) or
  • Serum (separated)

Lawsonia intracellularis PCR

LAWPCR
  • Feces (most common in 4-7 mo old foals but can occur in 3 mo to 13 mo old foals)
Salmonella culture SALM
  • Fecal swab in Amies transport media
  • Fresh fecal sample in sterile container (fill to line on container but do not overfill) or in ParaPak® transport media to assist with Salmonella recovery
Sand Recovery Analysis SAND
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container (8-10 fecal balls)
Selenium, whole blood SEL
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube) or
  • Heparin whole blood (green top tube)

Notes

Ship chilled except for ParaPak® and slides which should be kept at room temperature.

Please note that additional referral diagnostics to consider with this plan may include Thymidine Kinase. Visit our referral testing web page for referral lab contact information. Please contact the AHDC Veterinary Support Services team with any questions (vetsupport@cornell.edu, 607.253.3900).

Equine Diarrhea/Septicemia Foal Acute Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Anaerobic bacterial culture ANAER
  • Fecal swab in anaerobic transport media shipped at room temperature
(2) Blood Culture, Aerobic BLDAER
  • (2) inoculated aerobic blood culture bottles
(2) Blood Culture, Anaerobic BLDAN
  • (2) inoculated anaerobic blood culture bottles
Clostridium difficile Toxins (A/B) CLDT
  • Fresh feces refrigerated and less than 24 hours old or frozen
Clostridium perfringens Enterotoxin CLPT
  • Fresh feces refrigerated and less than 24 hours old or frozen
Coronavirus PCR, Beta BCOR
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container
Fecal Flotation FLOAT
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container
Hemogram, Large Animal LA CBC
  • (2) air dried blood smears
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube)
Immunoglobulin G, Equine - TIA EQUINE IGG
  • Serum (separated)
Large Animal Chemistry LA P
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube) or
  • Serum (separated)
Lawsonia intracellularis PCR LAWPCR
  • Feces (most common in 4-7 mo old foals but can occur in 3 mo to 13 mo old foals)
Rotavirus Antigen Detection Group A RLA
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container
Salmonella culture SALM
  • Fecal swab in Amies transport media
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof sterile container
  • Fresh fecal sample in sterile container (fill to line on container but do not overfill) or in ParaPak® transport media to assist with Salmonella recovery
Selenium, whole blood SEL
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube) or
  • Heparin whole blood (green top tube)
Serum Amyloid A SAA VET
  • Serum (separated)

Notes

If septicemia suspected, include (2) Blood cultures, aerobic and (2) Blood cultures, anaerobic.

If fecal float is negative, consider Cryptosporidium ELISA and Giardia ELISA which are performed on fecal samples.

May also consider referral to University of Kentucky VDL for Rotavirus B PCR on fecal samples.

Ship chilled (keep feces for toxin testing frozen) except for blood culture bottles, Port-a-cul™ and slides which should be kept at room temperature.

IgG results available within the same day.

To order blood culture bottles go to shipping services or call 607.253.3935. If non-group A Rotavirus is suspected, Electron Microscopy can be requested.

Equine Fever of Unknown Origin (Acute) Diagnostic Plan

If the entire plan is not desired, individual tests can be requested separately. Follow test hyperlinks to find individual test pricing.

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Aerobic Bacterial Culture AER
  • Feces, Pleural fluid, Peritoneal fluid, CSF, Tracheal wash
Anaerobic bacterial culture ANAER
  • Feces, Pleural fluid, Peritoneal fluid, CSF, Tracheal wash
Anaplasma phagocytophilum PCR
Included at a reduced price in the Equine Fever of Unknown Origin PCR Panel 		EHRE
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube
(3) Blood Culture, Aerobic/Fungal BLDAER
  • Whole blood in blood culture medium. For improved sensitivity, 3 samples 15-20 minutes apart if possible.
(3) Blood Culture, Anaerobic BLDAN
  • Whole blood in blood culture medium. For improved sensitivity, 3 samples 15-20 minutes apart if possible.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Cytology or Peritoneal fluid cytology or Pleural fluid cytology or Tracheal wash cytology CSFE
PTFE
PLFE
TWE
  • Also submit a red-top tube if culture is anticipated
  • CSF/Pleural fluid/Peritoneal fluid in EDTA
  • Smears (at least 2-3 unstained smears preferred)
Coronavirus PCR, Beta
Included at a reduced price in the Equine Fever of Unknown Origin PCR Panel 		BCOR
  • Feces
Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) PCR EEEPCR
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube
  • CSF in sterile container
  • Urine in sterile container
Equine Adenovirus 1 PCR
Included at a reduced price in the Equine Fever of Unknown Origin PCR Panel 		EAD1
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab or trans-tracheal wash or bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue
Equine Adenovirus 2 PCR
Included at a reduced price in the Equine Fever of Unknown Origin PCR Panel 		EAD2
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab or trans-tracheal wash or bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue
Equine Arteritis Virus PCR
Included at a reduced price in the Equine Fever of Unknown Origin PCR Panel 		EAR
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab or trans-tracheal wash or bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue
Equine Herpesvirus PCR Panel
Included at a reduced price in the Equine Fever of Unknown Origin PCR Panel 		EHVPNL
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab or trans-tracheal wash or bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue
Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) Virus c-ELISA EIAEL
  • Serum
Equine Parvovirus PCR EQPVPCR
  • Serum, liver, EDTA whole blood
Equine Rhinitis Virus A PCR
Included at a reduced price in the Equine Fever of Unknown Origin PCR Panel 		ERHA
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab or trans-tracheal wash or bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue
Equine Rhinitis Virus B PCR
Included at a reduced price in the Equine Fever of Unknown Origin PCR Panel 		ERHB
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab or trans-tracheal wash or bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue
Fecal Floatation FLOAT
  • Fresh feces from animals 3 days or older
Hemogram, Large Animal LA CBC
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube
Influenza Virus Matrix PCR
Included at a reduced price in the Equine Fever of Unknown Origin PCR Panel 		IVMPCR
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab or trans-tracheal wash or bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue
Large Animal Chemistry LA P
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube) or
  • Serum (separated)
Lawsonia intracellularis qPCR LAWPCR
  • Feces, ileum
Leptospira MAT, 5 standard serovars LEPTO
  • Serum
Leptospira Real-time PCR LEPTPCR
  • Urine in sterile container
Potomac Horse Fever PCR
Included at a reduced price in the Equine Fever of Unknown Origin PCR Panel 		EHRR
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube
Potomac Horse Fever (PHF) IFA PHF
  • Serum
Salmonella culture SALM
  • Feces
Serum Amyloid A SAA VET
  • Serum
Streptococcus equi Culture SEQUCUL
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab or trans-tracheal wash or bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue
Streptococcus equi PCR
Included at a reduced price in the Equine Fever of Unknown Origin PCR Panel 		SEQUPCR
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab or trans-tracheal wash or bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue
Tracheal Wash Cytology TWE
  • Tracheal wash fluid in EDTA
  • Smears (at least 2-3 unstained smears preferred)
  • Submit a red-top tube if culture is anticipated.
Urinalysis, Routine UA
  • Urine in sterile container
Urine Culture URCUL
  • Urine in sterile container
Virus Isolation VI
  • Fresh tissue or urine
West Nile Virus (WNV) IgG/IgM Capture ELISA Combination WNELPL
  • Serum
West Nile Virus (WNV) PCR WNVPCR
  • CSF, brain or spinal cord

Notes

For fever in a foal, please refer to Equine Diarrhea/Septicemia, Neonatal Foal Acute Diarrhea Diagnostic Plan.

This diagnostic plan is designed to detect a broad spectrum of systemic bacterial, viral, and some blood parasite causes of acute fever of unknown origin, as well as certain inflammatory changes which may assist in determining the underlying problems. Viral causes of illness are best detected during the first week of illness. This plan is not intended to be ordered in its entirety, rather the clinician should select the most appropriate tests consistent with the patient’s history, clinical signs, geographic location and season. See Large Animal Internal Medicine, 6th Edition, 2019, Chapter 4: Fever of Unknown Origin

Please note that additional referral diagnostics to consider with this plan may include Caseous lymphadenitis, Encephalitis, Eastern, IgM ELISA, Lawsonia IPMA and Piroplasmosis c-ELISA.  Visit our referral testing web page for referral lab contact information. Please contact the AHDC Veterinary Support Services team with any questions (vetsupport@cornell.edu, 607.253.3900).

Equine Fever of Unknown Origin (Chronic) Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Aerobic Bacterial Culture AER
  • Feces, Pleural fluid, Peritoneal fluid, CSF, Tracheal wash
Anaerobic Bacterial Culture ANAER
  • Fluid, swab or small tissue collected and immediately placed in anaerobic transport media.
Anaplasma phagocytophilum PCR EHRE
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube or spleen
(3) Blood Culture, Aerobic/Fungal BLDAER
  • Whole blood in blood culture medium. For improved sensitivity, 3 samples 15-20 minutes apart if possible.
(3) Blood Culture, Anaerobic BLDAN
  • Whole blood in blood culture medium. For improved sensitivity, 3 samples 15-20 minutes apart if possible.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Cytology or Peritoneal fluid cytology or Pleural fluid cytology or Tracheal wash cytology CSFE
PTFE
PLFE
TWE
  • Also submit a red-top tube if culture is anticipated
  • CSF/Pleural fluid/Peritoneal fluid in EDTA
  • Smears (at least 2-3 unstained smears preferred)
Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) Virus c-ELISA EIAEL
  • Serum
Hemogram, Large Animal LA CBC
  • 2 unstained, unfixed, air-dried blood smears
  • EDTA blood (tube >1/2 full)
Large Animal Chemistry LA P
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube) or
  • Serum (separated)
Lawsonia intracellularis PCR LAWPCR
  • Feces, illium or tonsillar tissue
Serum Amyloid A SAA VET
  • Serum
Streptococcus equi Culture SEQUCUL
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab or trans-tracheal wash or bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue
Urinalysis, Routine UA
  • Urine in sterile container
Urine Culture URCUL
  • Urine in sterile container
Virus Isolation VI
  • Tissue [target organs and blood-rich organs such as lymph nodes, spleen, lungs, kidney, heart, liver, brain] OR
  • Cerebrospinal fluid OR
  • EDTA whole blood OR
  • Antemortem nasal swab AND
  • Urine

Notes

Please note that additional referral diagnostics to consider with this plan may include Anaplasma phagocytophilum IFA, Lawsonia IPMA, Piroplasmosis c-ELISA and Streptococcus equi ELISA. Visit our referral testing web page for referral lab contact information. Please contact the AHDC Veterinary Support Services team with any questions (vetsupport@cornell.edu, 607.253.3900).

Equine Fever of Unknown Origin PCR Panel

Panel Code: EFUOP

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Anaplasma phagocytophilum PCR EHRE
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube or spleen
Coronavirus PCR, Beta BCOR
  • Fresh feces, colon or colon contents in leak-proof container
Equine Herpesvirus 1 PCR EHV1PCR
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube or spleen
Equine Herpesvirus 4 PCR EHV4PCR
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube or spleen
Equine Respiratory PCR Panel ERPNL
  • Nasal swab or nasopharyngeal swab or oropharyngeal swab or tracheal wash or bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue
Potomac Horse Fever PCR EHRR
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube or spleen

Notes

This panel is not a comprehensive list of etiologies of fever of unknown origin in the horse. For a more comprehensive list of tests for fever of unknown origin, please refer to the Equine Fever of Unknown Origin (Acute) Diagnostic Plan.

Equine Foal Joint Ill Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Aerobic Bacterial Culture
includes direct plating plus enrichment 		AER
  • (1) swab inoculated with synovial fluid and placed in aerobic transport media (Amies)
  • Synovial fluid in EDTA tube (red top tube)
Anaerobic Bacterial Culture ANAER
  • (1) swab inoculated with synovial fluid and placed in anaerobic transport media
Blood Culture, Aerobic/Fungal BLDAER
  • Inoculated aerobic/fungal blood culture bottle
Blood Culture, Anaerobic BLDAN
  • Inoculated anaerobic blood culture bottle
Hemogram, Large Animal LA CBC
  • (2) air dried blood smears
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube)
Immunoglobulin G, Equine - TIA EQUINE IGG
  • Serum (separated)
Large Animal Chemistry LA P
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube) or
  • Serum (separated)
Serum Amyloid A SAA VET
  • Serum (separated)
Synovial Fluid Cytology
white blood cell count, total protein 		JFE
  • (2) air dried slides of synovial fluid
  • Synovial fluid in EDTA tube (lavender top tube)

Notes

In rare circumstances a Fungal culture may also be warranted.

Synovial fluid can be placed in blood culture bottles to assist in bacterial recovery but sterility of sample procurement is mandatory. See blood culture technique for more information. To order blood culture bottles go to shipping services or call (607) 253-3935.

Ship all chilled except for Port-a-cul, blood culture bottles, and slides which should be at room temperature.

Equine Geriatric Horse Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
ACTH Baseline ACTHEQ
  • EDTA plasma in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.
Insulin Baseline INSEQ
  • EDTA plasma in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.
ACTH Post TRH 10min ACTHPOSTTRH1
  • EDTA plasma in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.
ACTH Post TRH 30min ACTHPOSTTRH2
  • EDTA plasma in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.
ACTH Pre TRH ACTHPRETRH
  • EDTA plasma in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.
Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) Virus c-ELISA EIAEL
  • Serum (separated, cooled, protected from light)
Fecal Floatation FLOAT
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container
Hemogram, Large Animal LA CBC
  • (2) air dried blood smears
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube)
Large Animal Chemistry LA P
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube) or
  • Serum (separated)
Selenium, whole blood SEL
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube) or
  • Heparin whole blood (green top tube)
Vitamin E in serum NDIK
  • Serum (separated, cooled, protected from light)

Notes

Need to include appropriate paperwork for coggins. Ship chilled.

If serum sample is more than 5 days old an EIA AGID will be substituted for the EIA c-ELISA.

Equine Herpesvirus PCR Panel/EHM

Panel Code: EHVPNL

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Equine Herpesvirus PCR Panel EHVPNL
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube)
  • Nasal or nasopharyngeal swab in red top tube with 0.5ml sterile saline
  • Fresh lung, liver, spleen, myocardium, placenta, fetus
Equine Herpesvirus 1 Neurological Genotyping EHVN
  • EHV-1 neurotyping can be added to extracted DNA from EHV-1 PCR positive or suspect samples to assist in the diagnosis of equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM). Both the neurologic and non-neurologic genotypes of EHV-1 have the potential to cause neurologic deficits.

Notes

Refrigerate and ship chilled.

Equine Liver Panel

Plan Code: EQUINE LIVER

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
A/G Ratio
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube)
  • Serum (separated)
Albumin ALB
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube)
  • Serum (separated)
Aspartate Aminotransferase AST
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube)
  • Serum (separated)
Bilirubin Panel (total, direct, indirect) BILIP
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube)
  • Serum (separated)
Creatine kinase CK
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube)
  • Serum (separated)
Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube)
  • Serum (separated)
Globulin
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube)
  • Serum (separated)
Glutamate Dehydrogenase, blood GLDH
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube)
  • Serum (separated)
Sorbitol Dehydrogenase, blood SDH
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube)
  • Serum (separated)
Total Protein with Albumin and Globulins
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube)
  • Serum (separated)
Triglycerides TRIG
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube)
  • Serum (separated)

Notes

Ship chilled.

Equine Mare Infertility Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Aerobic bacterial culture AER
  • Uterine swab in Amies transport media
Fungal Culture FUNGCM
  • Uterine swab in Amies transport media
Histopathology HISTO
  • Formalin fixed endometrial biopsy
Selenium, whole blood SEL
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube) or
  • Heparin whole blood (green top tube)
Vitamin E in serum NDIK
  • Serum (separated, cooled, protected from light)

Notes

May also want to consider (2) Progesterone baseline samples 10-12 days apart or possibly a Granulosa cell panel* (progesterone, testosterone, inhibin included for if indicated. Additional serum would need to be submitted.

Ship culture swabs, EDTA whole blood and serum chilled. Protect fixed tissue from freezing and keep slides at room temperature and protect them from formalin exposure.

Equine Metabolic Syndrome Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
ACTH Baseline ACTHEQ
  • EDTA plasma in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.
ACTH Pre TRH Response ACTHPRETRH
  • EDTA plasma in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.
ACTH Post TRH 10 min ACTHPOSTTRH1
  • EDTA plasma in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.
ACTH Post TRH 30 min ACTHPOSTTRH2
  • EDTA plasma in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.
Insulin Baseline INSEQ
  • EDTA plasma in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.
Leptin LEPTIN
  • EDTA plasma in lavender top tube (separated and placed in plastic tube or plain red top tube) and frozen within 4 hours of obtaining sample.
Glucose GLU
  • Serum (separated)
T4 (Thyroxine) - Immulite T4I
  • Serum (separated)

Notes

Ship chilled/frozen. See Equine Metabolic Syndrome Tests for more information.

Equine Myopathy Plan

Horses with EPM may present with asymmetrical muscle wasting or weakness – diagnostics to consider include Sarcocystis neurona EPM SAG 2,3,4 ELISA and Neospora hughesi ELISA. Both assays are referred to Equine Diagnostic Solutions.

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
(2) Creatine kinase CK
  • 1ml Serum or heparinized plasma (GTT) before exercise and after 15 min of walk/trot
Selenium, whole blood SEL
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube) or
  • Heparin whole blood (green top tube)
Vitamin E in serum NDIK
  • 1ml Serum (separated from clot and protected from light)

Notes

Muscle biopsy recommendations vary depending on the type of equine myopathy suspected. Please visit the MSU: Obtaining a Muscle Sample for muscle biopsy guidance, including biopsy location and specimen handling instructions, for analysis through their Equine Neuromuscular Diagnostic Laboratory. In order to preserve specimen integrity and for best diagnostic results, muscle biopsies should be sent directly to MSU’s Equine Neuromuscular Diagnostic Laboratory.

While muscle biopsy is required for the diagnosis of many equine myopathies, genetic testing is available through the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory for select equine myopathies, including Type 1 Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy (PSSM1), Glycogen Branching Enzyme Deficiency (GBED) in foals, Hyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis (HYPP), Myosin Heavy Chain Myopathy (MYHM), and Malignant Hyperthermia (MH).

Equine Neurologic Blood Only (Acute) Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus PCR EEEPCR
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube
  • Serum
Equine Herpesvirus-1 PCR EHV1PCR
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube
  • Nasal swab in 0.5ml sterile saline to keep moist (not wet)
Ref: Encephalitis, Eastern, IgM ELISA REEEIGM
  • Serum (separated)
Ref: EPM SAG 2,3,4 Titer ELISA REPMSAG
  • Serum (separated)
Selenium, whole blood SEL
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube) or
  • Heparin whole blood (green top tube)
West Nile Virus (WNV) IgG/IgM Capture ELISA Combination WNELPL
  • Serum (separated)

Notes

May want to retain feed sources including hay for possible botulism testing. Contact lab for more information.

For an increase in sensitivity in diagnosing EHV-1 include a nasal swab in a red top with 0.5 ml sterile saline and request Equine Herpes Virus-1 (EHV-1) PCR for an additional charge.

Note that EEE is not reliably detected in whole blood (CSF and brain tissue are more appropriate samples), however, EEE PCR is warranted on whole blood samples if the season and clinical signs are compatible and other samples are not available.

The Eastern Encephalitis IgM ELISA must be run in conjunction with EEE PCR to increase diagnosis of this viral disease. The course of the disease may cause a change in the results of the PCR and IgM; therefore, it is necessary to run both tests together to increase the diagnosis of EEE.

Anaplasma phagocytophilum may be a differential in neurologic horses. Consider adding the Anaplasma phagocytophilum PCR (EHRE) on EDTA whole blood.

**Equine neurologic signs can be attributed to primary hepatic and gastrointestinal disease resulting in hyperammonemia or primary renal disease resulting in uremic encephalopathy.

Equine Neurologic CSF Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Aerobic bacterial culture AER
  • CSF sample taken using sterile technique and placed in aerobic blood culture media (preferred) or in sterile red top tube
Cerebrospinal Fluid Cytology CSFE
  • CSF in EDTA (purple top tube)
Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus PCR EEEPCR
  • CSF in plain red top tube
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube
Equine Herpesvirus PCR Panel EHVPNL
  • CSF in plain red top tube
Equine Herpesvirus-1 PCR EHV1PCR
  • CSF in plain red top tube
  • Nasal swab in 0.5ml sterile saline to keep moist (not wet)
Fungal Culture FUNGCM
  • (1) swab inoculated with CSF and placed in aerobic transport media (Amies with charcoal)
  • CSF sample taken using sterile technique and placed in blood culture media (preferred) or in sterile red top tube
Lyme Disease (Borrelia burgdorferi) PCR LYMPCR
  • CSF in plain red top tube
(2) Lyme Disease, Equine Multiplex Assay EQLM
  • 1ml CSF for neurological cases
  • 2ml Serum
Ref: Encephalitis, Eastern, IgM ELISA REEEIGM
  • Serum (separated)

Ref: EPM CSF:Serum Ratio

REPMSR
  • CSF in plain red top tube and
  • Serum (separated)
West Nile Virus (WNV) IgG/IgM Capture ELISA Combination WNELPL
  • CSF in plain red top tube
  • Serum (separated)
West Nile Virus (WNV) PCR WNVPCR
  • CSF in plain red top tube

Notes

Ship chilled except for slides which should be kept at room temperature.

‡ The Equine Herpesvirus PCR Panel tests for EHV-1 and EHV-4 and includes neurotyping of any EHV-1 positive or suspect samples to assist with diagnosing equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM).

EPM SAG 2,3,4 (CSF: Serum Ratio) is only testing for antibodies to Sarcocystis neurona. If testing for Neospora hughesi please contact lab as the IFA is required.

‡‡ Note that EEE is not reliably detected in whole blood (CSF and brain tissue are more appropriate samples), however, EEE PCR is warranted on whole blood samples if the season and clinical signs are compatible and other samples are not available.

The Eastern Encephalitis IgM ELISA must be run in conjunction with EEE PCR to increase diagnosis of this viral disease. The course of the disease may cause a change in the results of the PCR and IgM;  therefore, it is necessary to run both  tests together to increase the diagnosis of EEE.

Anaplasma phagocytophilum may be a differential in neurologic horses. Consider adding the Anaplasma phagocytophilum PCR (EHRE) on EDTA whole blood.

**Equine neurologic signs can be attributed to primary hepatic and gastrointestinal disease resulting in hyperammonemia or primary renal disease resulting in uremic encephalopathy.

Equine Pasture Pregnancy Panel

Panel Code: EQPREG

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Estrone Sulfate
Estrone sulfate for greater than 90 days pregnant; PMSG for 45-100 days pregnant; Progesterone for less than 60 days pregnant. 		E1S
  • Serum (separated)
Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin
Estrone sulfate for greater than 90 days pregnant; PMSG for 45-100 days pregnant; Progesterone for less than 60 days pregnant. 		PMSG
  • Serum (separated)
  • PMSG not available for donkeys
Progesterone - RIA - Equine
Estrone sulfate for greater than 90 days pregnant; PMSG for 45-100 days pregnant; Progesterone for less than 60 days pregnant. 		PRE
  • Serum (separated)

Notes

Ship chilled.

Estrone sulfate for greater than 90 days pregnant; PMSG for 45-100 days pregnant; Progesterone for less than 60 days pregnant. See Equine Female Reproductive Testing for more information.

Equine Pre-purchase Exam Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Equine Arteritis Virus (EAV) SN
If stallion, add EVASN 		EVASN
  • Serum (separated)
Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) Virus c-ELISA EIAEL
  • Serum (separated)
Fecal Floatation FLOAT
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container
Hemogram, Large Animal LA CBC
  • (2) air dried blood smears
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube)
Large Animal Chemistry LA P
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube) or
  • Serum (separated)

Equine Drug Screen Level 1 or

Equine Drug Screen Level 2

EQDRUG1

EQDRUG2

  • 8ml Heparinized whole blood (green top tube)
  • 4ml of heparinized plasma separated and placed in plain red top tube

Notes

Ship chilled. Slides should be kept at room temperature.

Need to include appropriate paperwork for Coggins. Do not use gel clot activated tubes (SST).

If stallion, add Equine Arteritis Virus (EAV) SN on serum. If stallion is known EVA positive, may want to consider Equine Arteritis Virus (EAV) semen isolation (OIE) on semen. Contact lab prior to semen collection.

‡ If serum sample is more than 5 days old an EIA AGID will be substituted for the EIA c-ELISA.

Equine Respiratory PCR Panel

Panel Code: ERPNL

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Equine Adenovirus 1 PCR EAD1
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab (in sterile, sealed vials with several drops of saline added)
  • Transtracheal wash or Bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue (in sterile leak-proof containers)
Equine Adenovirus 2 PCR EAD2
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab (in sterile, sealed vials with several drops of saline added)
  • Transtracheal wash or Bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue (in sterile leak-proof containers)
Equine Arteritis Virus PCR EAR
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab (in sterile, sealed vials with several drops of saline added)
  • Transtracheal wash or Bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue (in sterile leak-proof containers)
Equine Herpesvirus 4 PCR EHV4PCR
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab (in sterile, sealed vials with several drops of saline added)
  • Transtracheal wash or Bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue (in sterile leak-proof containers)
Equine Herpesvirus-1 PCR EHV1PCR
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab (in sterile, sealed vials with several drops of saline added)
  • Transtracheal wash or Bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue (in sterile leak-proof containers)
Equine Rhinitis Virus A PCR ERHA
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab (in sterile, sealed vials with several drops of saline added)
  • Transtracheal wash or Bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue (in sterile leak-proof containers)
Equine Rhinitis Virus B PCR ERHB
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab (in sterile, sealed vials with several drops of saline added)
  • Transtracheal wash or Bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue (in sterile leak-proof containers)
Influenza Virus Matrix PCR IVMPCR
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab (in sterile, sealed vials with several drops of saline added)
  • Transtracheal wash or Bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue (in sterile leak-proof containers)
Streptococcus equi PCR SEQUPCR
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab (in sterile, sealed vials with several drops of saline added)
  • Transtracheal wash or Bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue (in sterile leak-proof containers)

Equine Respiratory Serology Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Equine Adenovirus (EAD) SN EADSN
  • Serum (separated)
Equine Arteritis Virus (EAV) SN EVASN
  • Serum (separated)
Equine Herpesvirus-1 (Rhinopneumonitis) SN EHV1SN
  • Serum (separated)
Equine Herpesvirus-4 SN EHV4SN
  • Serum (separated)
Equine Influenza Virus (EIV) HAI EIVHAI
  • Serum (separated)
Equine Rhinovirus-1 (ER-A) (Equine Rhinitis A Virus) SN ERAVSN
  • Serum (separated)
Equine Rhinovirus-2 (Equine Rhinitis B Virus) SN ERBVSN
  • Serum (separated)

Notes

When acute and convalescent samples are/will be collected, for most serology assays they should always be tested in parallel, and paired results interpreted. If acute samples are submitted alone please indicated if all tests should be performed. If second, convalescent samples are later submitted, tests on both samples will be run in parallel and fees for both samples will be charged. To avoid testing acute samples twice, hold and submit with convalescent samples. If convalescent samples will not be collected, or when infectious abortion is strongly suspected due to history, immediate testing of acute sample may be warranted.

Equine Respiratory, Adult (Acute) Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Aerobic Bacterial Culture AER

  • Trans-tracheal wash fluid in a red top tube

  • Swab of TTW in bacterial transport media

  • Swab of lung or piece of lung tissue aseptically collected and placed in aerobic transport media (Amies)

  • Fresh lung in sterile container

Anaerobic Bacterial Culture ANAER
  • Swab of transtracheal wash (TTW) (preferred sample) or swab of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid in anaerobic transport media
  • Fresh lung (>2-3 cm in diameter, minimum size) in sterile container
  • Swab of lung or piece of lung tissue aseptically collected and immediately placed in anaerobic transport media

Equine Herpesvirus PCR Panel

EHVPNL
  • EDTA blood (min. 2ml)
  • Nasal or nasopharyngeal swab in red top tube with 0.5ml sterile saline

Equine Respiratory PCR Panel

*Panel consists of multiple PCR assays: Equine Herpesviruses 1 and 4, Equine Adenoviruses 1 and 2, Equine Rhinitis viruses A and B, Influenza A virus (matrix), Equine arteritis virus and Streptococcus equi equi
ERPNL
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab (in sterile, sealed vials with several drops of saline added)
  • Transtracheal wash or Bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue (in sterile leak-proof containers)
Fungal Culture FUNGCM
  • Swab of transtracheal wash (TTW) (preferred sample) or swab of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid in anaerobic transport media or Amies transport media
  • Swab of lung or piece of lung tissue in anaerobic transport media or Amies transport media
Selenium, whole blood SEL
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube) or
  • Heparin whole blood (green top tube)
Streptococcus equi Culture SEQUCUL
  • Nasal swab or deep pharyngeal swab (in sterile, sealed vials with several drops of saline added)
  • Transtracheal wash or Bronchoalveolar lavage or lung tissue (in sterile leak-proof containers)
Tracheal Wash Cytology TWE
  • Tracheal wash fluid in EDTA
  • Smears (at least 2-3 unstained smears preferred)
  • Also submit a red-top tube if culture is anticipated. 

Notes

Ship chilled. It may be helpful to collect and bank a serum sample for possible acute and convalescent serology.

† This PCR panel tests for equine herpesvirus 1 and 4, equine adenoviruses 1 and 2, equine rhinitis viruses A and B, influenza A virus (matrix) and streptococcus equi. All tests included in this panel are also available individually and expedited results (STAT) are also available upon request for an additional fee. This panel does not include other bacterial respiratory pathogens which would require a transtracheal wash (TTW) or bronchial alveolar lavage (BAL). See chronic respiratory panel below.

†† To maximize sensitivity, it is recommended that BOTH a streptococcus equi PCR (included in the PCR panel) and a streptococcus equi culture be run in parallel (requiring BOTH a nasal swab in a red top tube with 0.5mL of sterile saline and a nasal swab in bacterial transport media).

Equine Respiratory, Adult (Chronic) Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Aerobic Bacterial Culture AER

  • Trans-tracheal wash fluid in a red top tube

  • Swab of TTW in bacterial transport media

  • Swab of lung or piece of lung tissue aseptically collected and placed in aerobic transport media (Amies)
  • Fresh lung in sterile container
Anaerobic Bacterial Culture ANAER
  • (1) swab of tracheal wash fluid in anaerobic transport media
  • Fresh lung (>2-3 cm in diameter, minimum size) in sterile container
  • Swab of lung or piece of lung tissue aseptically collected and immediately placed in anaerobic transport media
Bronchoalveolar Lavage Count Cytology (smear exam and counts) BALE
  • Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid in EDTA (lavender top tube) (required)
  • (2) rapidly air-dried, unstained smears (additional sample for best result)
Equine Herpesvirus 5 qPCR EHV5PCR
  • Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) (preferred) fluid in red top tube
  • Transtracheal wash (TTW) fluid in red top tube
Fungal Culture FUNGCM
  • Swab of transtracheal wash (TTW) (preferred sample) or swab of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid in anaerobic transport media or Amies transport media
  • Swab of lung or piece of lung tissue in anaerobic transport media or Amies transport media
Selenium, whole blood SEL
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube) or
  • Heparin whole blood (green top tube)
Tracheal Wash Cytology TWE
  • Tracheal wash fluid in EDTA (lavender top tube) (required sample)
  • (2) rapidly air-dried, unstained smears (additional sample for best result)
  • Submit extra tracheal wash fluid in a red top tube if culture is anticipated

Notes

Ship chilled except for Port-a-cul and slides which should be at room temperature for anaerobes.

See Transtracheal Wash Procedure for more information. [Nasal or pharyngeal swabs are only appropriate for virus isolation and PCR. Submit in viral transport media or a red top tube with a 0.5 ml sterile saline for virus isolation and PCR.]

Equine Respiratory, Foal Diagnostic Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Aerobic Bacterial Culture
Rhodococcus equi included 		AER
  • (1) swab inoculated with sample and placed in aerobic transport media (Amies without charcoal)
  • Transtracheal wash (TTW) (preferred)
Anaerobic Bacterial Culture ANAER
  • (1) swab inoculated with tracheal wash fluid and placed in anaerobic transport media
  • Fresh lung (>2-3 cm in diameter, minimum size)
  • Swab of lung or piece of lung tissue aseptically collected and immediately placed in anaerobic transport media
Equine Respiratory PCR Panel ERPNL
  • Nasal or pharyngeal swabs in viral transport media or a red top tube with 0.5ml sterile saline
  • Transtracheal wash (TTW) (preferred)
Fecal Floatation FLOAT
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container
Fibrinogen (heat-precipitation) FIB-SCH
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube
Fungal Culture FUNGCM
  • Swab of transtracheal wash (TTW) (preferred sample) or swab of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid in anaerobic transport media or Amies transport media
  • Swab of lung or piece of lung tissue in anaerobic transport media or Amies transport media
Hemogram, Large Animal LA CBC
  • (2) air dried blood smears
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube)
Immunoglobulin G, Equine - TIA EQUINE IGG
  • Serum (separated)
Large Animal Chemistry LA P
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube) or
  • Serum (separated)
Rhodococcus equi virulence PCR REQUPCR
  • Transtracheal wash (TTW) (preferred)
Selenium, whole blood SEL
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube) or
  • Heparin whole blood (green top tube)
Tracheal Wash Cytology TWE
  • (2) air dried slides of fluid
  • Transtracheal wash (TTW) (preferred)

Notes

Ship chilled except for slides which should be at room temperature.

See Transtracheal Wash Procedure for more information. [Nasal or pharyngeal swabs are only appropriate for virus isolation and PCR. Submit in viral transport media or a red top tube with a 0.5 ml sterile saline for virus isolation and PCR.]

†This PCR panel tests for equine herpesvirus 1 and 4, equine adenoviruses 1 and 2, equine rhinitis viruses A and B, influenza A virus (matrix) and streptococcus equi. All tests included in this panel are also available individually and expedited results (STAT) are also available upon request.

§ Rhodococcus equi virulence PCR has only been validated on TTW samples and nasal swabs will be rejected.

Equine Vaccine Titer Plan

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus Plaque Reduction Serum Neutralization EEEPRSN
  • Serum
EHV-1 Risk Evaluation EHV1PSP
  • Serum (separated) or EDTA plasma
Equine Herpesvirus 4 SN EHV4SN
  • Serum (separated)
Equine Influenza Virus (EIV) HAI EIVHAI
  • Serum (separated)
Equine Rhinitis A Virus SN ERAVSN
  • Serum (separated)
Equine Rhinitis B Virus SN ERBVSN
  • Serum (separated)
Lyme Disease, Equine Multiplex Assay EQLM
  • Serum (separated)
Potomac Horse Fever (PHF) IFA PHF
  • Serum (separated)
West Nile Virus (WNV) IgG/IgM Capture ELISA Combination WNELPL
  • Serum (separated)

Notes

Ship chilled.

EHV-1 SN (Rhinopneumonitis) EHV1SN is also available.

‡ Protective vaccine-induced titers for the various equine diseases have generally not been established. It may be desirable to obtain baseline post-vaccination titers in animals so that later titer testing can be interpreted in light of an animal’s known response to vaccination.

Please note that additional referral diagnostics to consider with this plan may include Equine encephalomyelitis PRNT Panel (EEE, WEE, VEE), Rabies Titer and Streptococcus equi ELISA. Visit our referral testing web page for referral lab contact information. Please contact the AHDC Veterinary Support Services team with any questions (vetsupport@cornell.edu, 607.253.3900).

Equine Weanling/Yearling (Acute) Diarrhea Diagnosis

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Aerobic bacterial culture AER
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container, chilled, not frozen
Anaerobic bacterial culture ANAER
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container, chilled, not frozen
Clostridium difficile Toxins (A/B) CLDT
  • Fresh feces, frozen
Clostridium perfringens Enterotoxin CLPT
  • Fresh feces, frozen
Coronavirus PCR, Beta BCOR
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container, chilled, not frozen
Fecal Floatation FLOAT
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container, chilled, not frozen
Hemogram, Large Animal LA CBC
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube
Large Animal Chemistry LA P
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube) or
  • Serum (separated)
Lawsonia PCR LAWPCR
  • Feces, ileum, or tonsillar tissue
Potomac Horse Fever (PHF) IFA PHF
  • Serum (separated)
Potomac Horse Fever (PHF) PCR EHRR
  • EDTA whole blood in lavender top tube
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container, chilled, not frozen
Rotavirus Antigen Detection Group A RLA
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container, chilled, not frozen
Salmonella culture SALM
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container, chilled, not frozen
Sand Recovery Analysis SAND
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container, chilled, not frozen
Selenium, whole blood SEL
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube) or
  • Heparin whole blood (green top tube)

Notes

Please note that additional referral diagnostics to consider with this plan may include Lawsonia IPMA. Visit our referral testing web page for referral lab contact information. Please contact the AHDC Veterinary Support Services team with any questions (vetsupport@cornell.edu, 607.253.3900).

Equine Wellness Profile Adult/Performance

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) Virus c-ELISA EIAEL
  • Serum (separated, cooled, protected from light)
Fecal Floatation FLOAT
  • Fresh feces in leak-proof container
Hemogram, Large Animal LA CBC
  • (2) air dried blood smears
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube)
Large Animal Chemistry LA P
  • Heparinized plasma (separated from a green top tube) or
  • Serum (separated)
Selenium, whole blood SEL
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube) or
  • Heparin whole blood (green top tube)
Serum Amyloid A SAA VET
  • Serum (separated, cooled, protected from light)
Vitamin E in serum NDIK
  • Serum (separated, cooled, protected from light)

Notes

Ship chilled. Need to include appropriate paperwork for Coggins.

‡ If serum sample is more than 5 days old an EIA AGID will be substituted for the EIA c-ELISA.

Equine Wellness, Newborn Foal (0-48 hours)

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Hemogram, Large Animal LA CBC
  • (2) air dried blood smears
  • EDTA whole blood (lavender top tube)
Immunoglobulin G, Equine - TIA EQUINE IGG
  • Serum (separated)
Serum Amyloid A SAA VET
  • Serum (separated)

Notes

Ship chilled except for slides which should be kept at room temperature.

IgG results available within the same day.

Large Animal Renal Panel

Plan Code: LARGE RENAL

Tests Performed Test Code Samples Needed
Albumin ALB
  • 1ml Serum (separated) or heparinized plasma
Anion Gap
  • 1ml Serum (separated) or heparinized plasma
Calcium CA
  • 1ml Serum (separated) or heparinized plasma
Chloride CL
  • 1ml Serum (separated) or heparinized plasma
Creatinine CREAT
  • 1ml Serum (separated) or heparinized plasma
Phosphate (Phosphorus) P
  • 1ml Serum (separated) or heparinized plasma
Potassium K
  • 1ml Serum (separated) or heparinized plasma
Sodium NA
  • 1ml Serum (separated) or heparinized plasma
Urea Nitrogen BUN
  • 1ml Serum (separated) or heparinized plasma

Notes

Ship chilled.