IN-HOUSE DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
We have an array of in-houses diagnostic tests, being supported by the latest IDEXX LabStation, IDEXX Catalyst One Chemistry Analyzer, IDEXX Procyte Dx Hematology Analyzer, IDEXX SediVue Dx Urine Sediment Analyzer and IDEXX Snapshot Dx. With these machines, we would be able to obtain results on that day itself, usually in 10 to 20 minutes.
A haematological analysis of your pet’s blood to assess red and white cell count (RBC and WBC respectively), immunity status, and the measure of haemoglobin, the actual substance in RBC that carries oxygen.
Clinical indications: evaluate pet’s overall health prior to anaesthetic procedures as it can detect some bleeding disorders or unseen abnormalities; help indicate the presence of many forms of the disease; screens for underlying infection, anaemia & illness; sequential tests allows for tracking of the progression of the disease and a reasonable assessment of prognosis, and also establishes a baseline for future monitoring
Results will show: hydration status, anaemia, infection blood clotting ability, the ability of the immune system to fight infection
Provides basic information to the following organs by examining the presence of the following substances in the blood:
Kidney function (renal profile)
- BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) – abnormally high levels can indicate kidney disease, dehydration, heart disease, shock or urinary obstruction, and low levels are associated with liver disease.
- CREA (Creatinine) – elevated levels can indicate kidney disease, urinary tract obstruction, or dehydration.
Liver function (hepatic profile)
- ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) – elevated levels are a sensitive indicator of liver cell damage
- ALKP (Alkaline Phosphatase) – elevated levels can indicate liver abnormality (cholestasis), Cushing’s syndrome or steroid therapy
Protein profile
- ALB (Albumin) – elevated levels can indicate dehydration; decreased levels can indicate chronic liver, idney, inflammatory or intestinal disease or blood loss
- TP (Total Protein) – levels indicate a variety of conditions, including dehydration, inflammation and diseases of the liver, kidney or intestine
- GLOB (globulin) – elevated levels can indicate inflammation, potential chronic infection; decreased levels can indicate blood loss, gastrointestinal loss and immune deficiencies
Glucose
- GLU (Blood Glucose) – high levels can indicate diabetes; low levels can indicate liver disease, infection or certain tumours
Kidney function (renal profile)
- BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) – abnormally high levels can indicate kidney disease, dehydration,
heart disease, shock or urinary obstruction, and low levels are associated with liver disease. - CREA (Creatinine) – elevated levels can indicate kidney disease, urinary tract obstruction or
dehydration. - PHOS (Phosphorus) – elevated levels can indicate decreased kidney loss through conditions
like kidney disease, increased intake through the gastrointestinal tract and increased release
from injured tissues. - CA+ (Calcium) – elevated levels can indicate disease of the parathyroid gland and kidneys or
certain types of tumours, decreased levels can indicate certain parathyroid diseases and low
albumin.
Liver function (hepatic profile)
- ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) – elevated levels are a sensitive indicator of liver cell damage.
- ALKP (Alkaline Phosphatase) – elevated levels can indicate liver abnormality (cholestasis),
Cushing’s syndrome or steroid therapy. - TBIL (Total Bilirubin) elevated levels can indicate liver disease (cholestasis and insufficiency)
and certain types of anaemia. - CHOL (Cholesterol) – elevated levels are seen in a variety of disorders, including
hypothyroidism and liver or kidney disease. - GGT (gamma glutamyl transferase) – elevated levels can indicate a certain type of liver
abnormality (cholestasis).
Pancreas function (Pancreatic profile)
- LIP (lipase) - Lipase is an enzyme that is produced by the pancreas, of which its function is to break down fats in food so they can be absorbed in the intestines.
- AMY (amylase)- Amylase is an enzyme that is produced in the pancreas, where its function is to help digest carbohydrates. If the pancreas is inflamed or diseased, amylase will get released into the blood.
Protein profile
- ALB (Albumin) – elevated levels can indicate dehydration; decreased levels can indicate
chronic liver, kidney, inflammatory or intestinal disease or blood loss. - TP (Total Protein) – levels indicate a variety of conditions, including dehydration, inflammation
and diseases of the liver, kidney or intestine. - GLOB (globulin) – elevated levels can indicate inflammation, potential chronic infection; decreased levels can indicate blood loss, gastrointestinal loss and immune deficiencies.
Glucose
- GLU (Blood Glucose) – high levels can indicate diabetes; low levels can indicate liver disease,
infection or certain tumours.
A biomarker for kidney function, which increases with both acute or active kidney injury and chronic kidney disease at only 25% impact on kidney function, which allows for earlier intervention for more successful outcomes.
A specific test for kidney function which is less impacted by extrarenal factors including body condition, lean body mass, age and disease state.
FRU (Fructosamine) – involves checking the fructosamine level in the blood, a protein that binds very strongly to glucose in the blood to provide an accurate estimate of the amount of glucose in the blood; it is integral to a thorough assessment of glycaemic control.
GLU (Glucose) – provides a snapshot of the total blood glucose
Increases in this blood component indicates decreased liver function, abnormalities in blood flow to the liver or possible bile duct obstruction.
A good way to detect liver problems, particularly when their ALT and TBIL levels are only borderline elevated and difficult to interpret.
Clinical indicators include seizures, low ALB or high liver enzyme values in the blood or poor development in growing pets.
Helps detect canine hyperthyroidism, a reduction in the production of the thyroid hormone which is responsible for the regulation of metabolism of food as well as the daily metabolic functions of most of the body’s tissues and organs.
Clinical features include weight gain, dry skin, excessive shedding, lethargy, darkening of the skin, low heart rate, or heat seeking behaviour.
C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase protein used, in combination with hematology, to detect and monitor systemic inflammation in dogs. CRP levels rise rapidly (as early as 6 hours) after the onset of significant inflammation and can fall within 24 hours of resolution. Mildly elevated CRP (1-3 mg/dL) levels are suggestive of early, mild or resolving systemic inflammation. Values > 3 mg/dL are consistent with clinically significant systemic inflammation, with higher values indicating greater severity.
Na+, K+, Cl- (sodium, potassium, chloride) - clinical features include vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, cardiac symptoms, and Addison’s disease.
CANINE-ONLY TEST
To screen for Cushing’s Syndrome or Addison’s Disease – Elevated levels may indicate Cushing’s disease; decreased levels may indicate Addison’s disease, as well as to monitor effectiveness of treatment and determine medication dosages.
Cushing’s Syndrome: polydipsia and polyuria, urinating at night, increased hunger, increased panting, pot-bellied abdomen, obesity, fat pads on the neck and shoulders, loss of hair, lack of energy, muscle weakness, darkening and/or thinning of the skin, bruising, and hard, white scaly patches on the skin.
Cortisol therapeutic monitoring: monitoring of cortisol levels after therapy.
Heartworm is a serious and potentially fatal disease that causes clogging in the heart and major blood vessels leading from the heart, interfering with the valve action in the heart, thereby reducing blood supply to other organs of the body, causing them to malfunction.
Clinical features include soft, dry cough, shortness of breath, weakness, nervousness, listlessness and loss of stamina.
Screens for vector-borne diseases (i.e. heartworm disease, ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease and anaplasmosis).
- Heartworm disease: clinical features include a soft, dry cough, shortness of breath, weakness, nervousness, listlessness and a loss of stamina.
- Ehrlichiosis: clinical features include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, weight loss, abnormal bleeding, enlarged lymph nodes, enlarged spleen, pain and stiffness, coughing, discharge from the eyes and/or nose, vomiting and diarrhoea, inflammation of the eye and neurological symptoms.
- Lyme disease: clinical features include recurrent lameness due to inflammation of the joints, swollen joints, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, lethargy, loss of appetite, sensitivity to touch, stiff walk with an arched back, and potentially severe progressive kidney disease.
- Anaplasmosis: clinical features including lameness, joint pain, fever, lethargy, inappetence.
Babesiosis is a disease caused by the intracellular parasite Babesia, infection is most common in dogs. Infection in a dog may occur by tick transmission, direct transmission via blood transfer from dog bites, blood transfusions, or transplacental transmission.
Clinical features include lethargy, weakness, lack of appetite, pale gums, fever, enlarged abdomen, jaundice, weight loss, red or orange urine, discoloured stool, enlarged lymph nodes or enlarged spleen.
A highly contagious and serious viral disease with no known cure, impacting several bodily systems including the gastrointestinal tract, the respiratory tract, the spinal cord and the brain, and which is fatal 50% of the time. Clinical features include sneezing, coughing, thick mucus from the eyes and nose, high fever, red eyes, lethargy, fatigue, inappetence, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Leptospirosis is a disease caused by infection with Leptospira bacteria. These bacteria can be found worldwide in soil and water. There are many strains of Leptospira bacteria that can cause disease. Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, which means it can be spread from animals to people. Singapore had a leptospirosis outbreak in July/August 2016.
Check the titer levels of three viruses: Infectious Hepatitis (ICH), Parvovirus (CPV) and Distemper (CDV).
ICH: A highly infectious acute adenovirus infection that affects the liver and inner lining of blood vessels.
Assess the health of the pancreas in dogs presenting with vomiting, abdominal pain or anorexia. SNAP test provides reference laboratory quality technology for superior diagnostic accuracy at the point of care.
Canine Parvovirus (CPV) and Canine Coronavirus (CCV) are highly contagious viruses that cause severe diarrhoea in dogs. Giardia is a zoonotic protozoan parasite that also causes severe diarrhoea in both dogs and humans. All three are commonly found worldwide in infected faeces (CPV & CCV) and contaminated water (Giardia).
Giardia is an intestinal infection in humans and animals. It is caused by a microscopic protozoan parasite duodenalis (also known as G.intestinalis or G. Lamblia)
The determination of blood type is essential for the success of blood transfusion in animals. In dogs, the most common blood type is DEA 1, where there are a few more subgroups. This test kit allows for the determination of whether the dog is DEA 1 negative or positive. This test is strongly recommended for dogs before blood transfusion to prevent a potent alloantibody response against this antigen and thus an acute haemolytic transfusion reaction.
The direct antiglobulin test (DAT) is used primarily to help determine whether the cause of hemolytic anemia is due to antibodies attached to RBCs. Hemolytic anemia is a condition in which red blood cells (RBCs) are destroyed more quickly than they can be replaced.
The purpose of the crossmatch is to detect the presence of antibodies in the recipient against the red blood cells of the donor. These antibodies attach to the red blood cells of the donor after transfusion. An incompatible transfusion can result in a severe hemolytic anemia and even death. In dogs and horses, naturally occurring antibody against important hemolytic red blood cell antigens (e.g. DEA 1.1 and 1.2 in the dog, and Qa and Aa in the horse) are not found.
FELINE-ONLY TEST
- FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus)
Attacks the cat’s immune system, leaving the cat vulnerable to many other infections, allowing normally harmless bacteria, viruses, protozoa and fungi found in the everyday environment to potentially cause severe illnesses.
- FeLV (Feline Leukaemia Virus)
A state of immune deficiency that hinders the cat’s ability to protect itself against other infections causing it to fall severely ill when infected with bacteria and viruses that usually do not affect healthy cats.
A common parasitic disease passed on through killing and eating infected animals or through faeces or infected cats.
The disease can pass on to humans and is especially dangerous for pregnant women.
Clinical signs include mild diarrhoea and inappetence, and can also affect the cat’s lungs, liver and nervous system
A common and infectious virus passed through the faeces of cats, more commonly found in households with more than one cat.
Enables early detection of pancreatic disease in cats with vague signs of disease, showing common but nonspecific signs of illness, or anorexia, as feline pancreatitis can become a chronic, intermittent problem, triggering damage to other areas of the body, leading to respiratory failure, steatitis, and other damages
Enables early identification of cats at risk for cardiac disease (heart murmur, breed, history of cardiac conditions, arrhythmia), to rule out cats with respiratory signs of cardiac causes, or for adult cats prior to anaesthesia.
Feline have 3 known blood types, A, B, and AB. Type A is most common (about 99% of cats in the United States are Type A). Certain breeds have a higher prevalence of Type B. Type AB is rare.
EXTERNAL DIAGNOSTIC TEST
We also send off samples to IDEXX external labs, which would have the results given within 2-3 weeks.
Test that identifies whether the pathogen is aerobic (survives in oxygen-filled environment) or anaerobic (survives in oxygen-deficient environment). This information could further help with the narrowing down the treatment plan needed for the pet.
Test that identifies if the pathogen is aerobic while identifying its organism ID and susceptibility. It also tests if the sample has any fungi in it. This information could further help with the narrowing down the treatment plan needed for the pet.
Test that identifies any pathogens that are aerobic from an ear swab sample. This information could further help with the narrowing down the treatment plan needed for the pet.
Test that identifies any environmental allergens that are specific to the tropical region that the pet may be allergic to via the igE antibodies. Allergens include pollens (from weeds, trees and grasses) as well as moulds, fleas and mites.
This test tests for antibodies (igE) for 24 pet food components including barley, beef, beet pulp, brewer’s yeast, chicken, corn, duck, egg, fish meat, ground flaxseed, kangaroo, lamb, liver (beef), milk, oats, pinto beans, pork, potato (white), rabbit, rice, soybean, turkey, venison, and wheat. Levels of antibodies present for each type of component would determine if the pet is allergic to food components concerned.
This test is recommended for detection of Crenosoma lungworm in dogs and Aelurostrongylus lungworm larvae and nematodes in cats via a fresh faecal sample. These parasites are common in the world and are usually found in the lungs of the affected animal. Pets may obtain the larvae by ingesting the intermediate hosts (such as snails, rodents, etc.). Symptoms of the parasite infecting the pet includes coughing, difficulty breathing, retching and any other respiratory issues.
A bence-jones protein is a monoclonal globulin protein or immunoglobulin light chain found in the urine. Detection of this protein may be suggestive of multiple myeloma or Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia.
Test that identifies and analyses stones removed from the gall bladder or bile duct.
Biopsy is an examination of tissue removed from the body to discover the presence, cause or extent of a disease. The services include macroscopic evaluation or dissection of the tissues, special stains, decalcification, evaluation of surgical margins and internal consultation if required. The report would include the source, microscopic description of the lesion, interpretation, comments regarding the biological behaviour, aetiology, margins and references where applicable.
Cytology is the examination of a single cell type, usually from a fluid sample. This test will cover the cytology and biopsy of the bone marrow sample. The report will include source, microscopic description that includes overall cellularity, cell types and appearances, cytological interpretation, and comments regarding biological behaviour, aetiology & prognosis.
Chagas disease is a tropical parasitic disease that is caused by the protozoan parasite called Trypanosoma Cruzi. It is spread mostly by an insect also known as the “kissing bug”. Symptoms of this disease includes an acute inflammatory skin change known as chagomas, which would eventually cause infection and inflammation of many other body tissues, especially those of the heart and intestinal tract.
The Coombs test is performed to detect the presence of antibody against red blood cells. This test is usually performed to support the diagnosis of Immune-mediated Haemolytic Anaemia (IHA), of which up to 66-75% of dogs with IHA will test positive on. The test is also indicated in pets with a regenerative or severely non-regenerative anaemia, that had other causes of anaemia ruled out. The test has no diagnostic value in non-anaemic pets.
Crytococcosis is a systemic fungal disease that may affect the respiratory tract (esp the nasal cavity), CNS, eyes and skin. Animals with the disease may start to have neurological signs such as depression, changes in temperament, seizures, circling and blindness. With this test, it detects cryptococcus antigens which is a indicator of infection.
Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressant drug that is usually used to treat certain auto-immune diseases in animals (i.e atopic dermatitis, keratoconjuctivitis sicca, etc). This test is usually performed to monitor the cyclosporine levels in animals that have taken oral cyclosporine.
Cytology is the examination of a single cell type, usually from a fluid sample. The report will include source, microscopic description that includes overall cellularity, cell types and appearances, cytological interpretation, and comments regarding biological behaviour, aetiology & prognosis.
BAL cell count is the cell count of the Bronchoalveolar lavage, fluid that has been squirted into a small part of the lung and then collected for examination via a bronchoscope. The report provided would include the source, nucleated cell count, RBC, cytology with a brief microscopic description that includes overall cellularity, cell types and appearance, cytologic interpretation, comments regarding biological behaviour, aetiology and prognosis where applicable.
Cerebrospinal fluid is a clear, colourless fluid found in the brain and spinal cord. The report provided would include the source, nucleated cell count, volume, RBC, glucose, total protein, cytology with a brief microscopic description that includes overall cellularity, cell types and appearance, cytologic interpretation, comments regarding biological behaviour, aetiology and prognosis where applicable.
This test examines the synovial/joint fluid sample via fluid analysis and cytology. Cytology is the examination of a single cell type, usually from a fluid sample, whereas fluid analysis analyses the contents of the fluid. The test would help to diagnose and treat joint-related problems.
This test would help the identify the type of fungi that is found on the sample provided (usually hair/skin scraping or feed/bedding). It DOES NOT find out the susceptibility of the fungi.
Hypercalcaemia of malignancy is the elevated levels of calcium in the blood due to a malignant tumour present, usually bone-related. Due to the malignancy, it could cause the osteoclastic bone resorption to increase, which is the primary cause of hypercalcaemia of malignancy, followed by increased renal tubular resorption and intestinal absorption.
*FROZEN SAMPLE REQUIRED/FROZEN SHIPPING NOT INCLUDED/TO BE ARRANGED BY CLINIC SEPARATELY
Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is the most common application of immunostaining. It involves the process of selectively identifying antigens (proteins) in cells of tissue section by exploiting the principle of antibodies binding specifically to the antigens in the biological tissues. This service uses specialized immunohistochemical testing to demonstrate the presence of various antigens, aetiological agents or tissue markers in histologic specimens. The reports would include the antibodies utilized, the type of antigen or tissue marker detected, the results of the procedure on the patient’s tissue and an interpretative summary.
Leishmaniasis is a disease caused by an intracellular protozoan parasite, Leishmania, transmitted by the bite of a female phlebotomine sand fly. The clinical spectrum for Leishmaniasis ranges from self-resolving cutaneous ulcer to a mutilating mucocutaneous disease and even to a lethal systemic illness.
Leptospirosis is a disease caused zoonotic, spiral-shaped bacteria that can damage the liver, kidneys and other organs of both animals and humans. The test only detects pathogenic strains only.
Lymphoma (Lymphosarcoma) is a type of cancer that is defined by a proliferation of malignant lymphocytes within solid organs such as lymph nodes, bone marrow, liver and spleen. The test identifies the presence or absence of clonally expanded B or T cell populations. A negative result does not rule out lymphoproliferative disease.
Phenobarbital is a barbiturate drug that slows down the activity of the brain and nervous system, whereas bromide is a compound found in many medications that is effective against epilepsy. This test is performed to monitor the therapeutic level of the two drugs in the sample.
Rabies is a viral disease that causes inflammation of the brain in humans and other mammals. Symptoms would include fever and tingling at site of exposure, followed by neurological behaviours such as aggression, violent movements and fear of water. Once symptoms appear, the results is nearly always death. This test is used for export purposes only.
Ringworm, also known as dermatophytosis, is a fungal infection of the skin that usually presents itself as in a red, itchy, scaly, circular rash. Alopecia/hair loss may occur on affected skin areas. The test would diagnose if the sample collected has ringworm present via RealPCR and a fungal culture using a selective dermatophyte media.
Stone analysis is usually performed to identify the aetiology of the urinary stone sample. The full report would include a physical description of the stone, a full colour digital photo of the stone, and a semiquantitative analysis of the stone’s composition (including nidus, interior and shell).
Urinalysis is the most common urine test performed to diagnose the patient. Together with a urine culture, the tests performed would identify if there are any bacteria present in the urine. The organism that are present would be identified and have a susceptibility test performed, where the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of the susceptibility would be identified.
Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin that is responsible for increased intestinal absorption of calcium, magnesium and phosphate. In animals, low amounts of Vitamin D can be tolerated at a time. However, too much Vitamin D would be toxic to animals as the excess would not be rapidly excreted in the urine. This would then cause the excess Vitamin D to be stored in the adipose/fat tissues and liver. Excess can then lead to kidney failure and even death.
Troponin I is a group of cardiac and skeletal muscle proteins that regulate muscle contractions. This test is used to detect measure the level of cardiac-specific troponin in the blood to help detect cardiac/heart injury.
CANINE-ONLY TEST
This test is used to identify if the cause the anaemia in the dog is from any parasitic or bacterial disease. Such parasites include Anaplasma spp., Babesia spp., Canine Haemotropic Mycoplasma, Ehrlichia spp., Hepatozoon spp., Leptospira spp., and Rocky Mountain spotted fever
Bartonella is a Gram-Negative intracellular bacterium that infects the red blood cells of its host. This bacterium is passed by insects, and symptoms would include a red bump on the site of the insect bite. However, it is common for dogs to not show any symptoms and if they did, would show varied symptoms depending on the strain and susceptibility of the bacterium
This test is used to screen for any Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC) in dogs. TCC, also known as urothelial carcinoma, is a type of cancer that typically occurs in the urinary system. It is the most common cancerous condition affecting the urinary tract of dogs
Brucella Canis is a Gram-Negative bacterium that causes brucellosis, or reproductive failures in dogs. Symptoms include stillbirth and abortion in female dogs, and epididymitis, prostatitis and sperm abnormalities in male dogs. This test is used as a confirmatory test following a positive Brucella canis antibody by IFA test
Canine Distemper is a contagious viral disease that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems of puppies and dogs. The first signs of the dog developing canine distemper include fevers, sneezing, coughing and thick mucus coming from the eyes and nose. The first fever would subside for a couple of days before the second fever starts, which is followed by gastrointestinal and neurological signs such as vomiting, diarrhoea and fits and paralysis respectively
Hemoplasmas is a disease that is transmitted via transfer of infected blood or via arthropod vectors such as lice, fleas, and ticks. Symptoms may include haemolytic anaemia, and more severe acute anaemia are associated with splenectomy, immune suppression or coinfection with multiple hemoplasma species
H3N8 influenza virus is an influenza A virus that is endemic in in birds, horses and dogs. Symptoms are similar to other influenza viruses, where the infected animals would display flu-like symptoms such as ‘drippy” nose and dry coughs
Lameness is an abnormal gait or stance of an animal that is the result of dysfunction of the locomotor system. The panel would be testing on whether ANA (Anaplasma), Ehrlichia canis, Lyme disease or rheumatoid factor would be the cause of lameness in the dog
This test is performed to identify heart disease in dogs by the level of NT-proBNP in the sample. NT-proBNP is a protein released by cardiac myocytes used as a marker to identify acute congestive heart failure
This test is used to identify the cause of the diarrhoea in dogs. The panel of organisms tested would include Campylobacter Coli, Campylobacter Jejuni, Canine Circovirus, Canine Distemper Virus, Canine Parvovirus 2, Clostridium difficile toxin A/B, Canine Enteric Coronavirus, Clostridium Perfringens toxins, Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia spp., and Salmonella spp
Mast cell tumour, or Mastocytoma, is a type of round-cell tumour consisting of mast cells. The test would include immunohistochemistry of KIT and Ki67, histochemical staining for AgNOR, PCR analysis for mutation in exon 8 and exon 11 of the c-KIT gene and interpretation, of which all of these genes are related to the proliferation of mast cells.
Mast cell tumour, or Mastocytoma, is a type of round-cell tumour consisting of mast cells. The test would include immunohistochemistry of KIT and Ki67, histochemical staining for AgNOR, PCR analysis for mutation in exon 8 and exon 11 of the c-KIT gene and interpretation, of which all of these genes are related to the proliferation of mast cells. This test can only be performed if a prior diagnosis of mast cell tumour has been made
MDR1, or Multi-Drug Resistance 1 gene, is a gene that could have mutation most commonly in herding dogs, such as Australian Shepherd dogs and Border Collies. A mutation in this gene would cause them to be sensitive to certain drugs, mainly ivermectin that is usually given for prevention of heartworm
Neospora Caninum is a coccidian parasite that infects the brain and muscle. This would then cause neurological symptoms such as stiffness of pelvic limbs, and paralysis distinguished by gradual muscle atrophy
This test is used to identify the cause of the neurological symptoms presented by the affect animal. The panel would include organisms such as Bartonella spp., Borrelia Burgdorferi sensu lato, Blastomyces dermatitidis, Canine Distemper Virus, Coccidioides spp., Cryptococcus spp., Histoplasma Capsulatum, Neospora Caninum, Toxoplasma gondii and West Nile Virus.
This test is used to identify the cause of respiratory symptoms displayed by the affected animal. The panel would include organisms such as Bordetella bronchiseptica, Canine adenovirus type 2, Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) Quant, Canine Herpesvirus type 1 (CHV-1), Canine Parainfluenza virus, Canine Pneumovirus, Canine Respiratory Coronavirus (CRCoV), H3N2 Canine Influenza Virus, Influenza A virus (includes H1N1, H3N2, H3N8, H7N2), and Mycoplasma cynos and Streptococcus equi subsp. Zooepidemicus
The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland in the neck that releases a compound called thyroid. Excess or lack of thyroid being released would result in the condition known as Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism respectively. This test would test for levels of endogenous cTSH, free T4, total T4 and thyroglobulin autoantibody, all of which would help with the diagnosis of the conditions stated above.
Trypsin-like immunoreactivity (TLI), Cobalamin and Folate are markers used to identify Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI). This disease is the inability to properly digest food due to a lack of digestive enzymes made by the pancreas. Symptoms may include digestive problems, malnutrition and/or improper absorption of nutrients in the body.
Uveitis is the inflammation of the uvea, the pigmented layer that lies between the inner retina and the outer fibrous layer composed of sclera and cornea. This test would therefore identify the cause of this inflammation, its panel consisting of organisms that include Anaplasma spp, Blastomyces dermatitidis, Brucella canis, canine adenovirus type 1, Coccidioides spp, Cryptococcus spp., Ehrlichia spp., Hepatozoan spp., Leishmania spp., Leptospira spp. and Toxoplasma gondii.
Pyrexia, or otherwise known as fever, can be caused by a multitude of issues, including viral and parasitic-related infections. This test will test for a variety of diseases including Anaplasma spp., Babesia spp., Bartonella spp., Blastomyces dermatitidis, Brucella canis, Coccidioides spp., Cryptococcus spp., Ehrlichia spp., Hepatozoon spp., Histoplasma capsulatum, Leishmania spp. Quant, Leptospira spp., Neospora caninum, Rocky Mountain spotted fever (Rickettsia rickettsii), Toxoplasma gondii and Trypanosoma cruzi RealPCR™ tests.
FELINE-ONLY TEST
This test is used to identify if the cause the anaemia in the cat is from any parasitic or bacterial disease. Such parasites include Anaplasma spp., Bartonella spp., Cytauxzoon felis, Ehrlichia spp., Feline Hemotropic Mycoplasma (FHM), FeLV and FIV.
This test is used to identify the cause of the diarrhoea in cats. The panel of organisms tested would include Campylobacter coli, Campylobacter jejuni, Clostridium perfringens alpha toxin (CPA) gene Quant, Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CPE) gene Quant, Cryptosporidium spp., feline coronavirus (FeCoV), feline panleukopenia virus, Giardia spp., Salmonella spp., Toxoplasma gondii, and Tritrichomonas blagburni (formerly foetus).
Feline Coronavirus is a positive-stranded RNA virus that is infectious to cats worldwide. It comes in two forms: FECV where it infects the intestines & causes diarrhoea or intestinal issues, and FIPV where it causes Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP).
Hemoplasmas is a disease that is transmitted via transfer of infected blood or via arthropod vectors such as lice, fleas, and ticks. Symptoms may include haemolytic anaemia, and more severe acute anaemia are associated with splenectomy, immune suppression or coinfection with multiple hemoplasma species. It will test for different Mycoplasma strains including Mycoplasma haemofelis (formerly Haemobartonella felis), Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum, Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis.
Feline Panleukopenia virus is a species of virus that is highly contagious in cats. It causes severe infection that causes gastrointestinal, immune system and nervous system diseases. This test is used to identify if the cat has protection against the virus, usually via a vaccination given prior.
This test is performed to identify the viral agent that is causing a disease in the affected cat. The panel would include viruses such as Feline calicivirus, feline coronavirus (FCoV), FeLV and FIV.
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Infectious Virus (FIV) are viral diseases which are transmitted via nasal discharge and saliva. Symptoms may be varied, and some cats can be presented asymptomatically over a few years. These cats would not display symptoms until they become immunocompromised.
Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a biotype of Feline Coronavirus. Not all cats which have the virus display symptoms, however if they do, they would fall under two categories/forms: the wet form, which is more common and is identified by the fluid build up in the abdomen, causing ascites, and the dry form, where there is no fluid build up but instead lesions that are inflamed would appear throughout the cat’s body, including the eyes, kidneys, liver and nervous system.
Feline Infectious Virus (FIV) is a viral infection in cats that can be transmitted via cat bites or mating. This test would be used to identify whether FIV is present in the sample. Any FIV vaccine that was dine prior would not interfere with the results.
Feline pancreas-specific lipase test is a test used to check if the cat is suffering from feline pancreatitis. Cobalamin and Folate would also be tested to identify the function of the cat’s pancreas.
Heartworm is a parasitic worm that infects the heart of the cat. This would cause some cardiac issues in the cat, where symptoms would include coughing. This test would test for any antigen and antibody that may be present in the sample via ELISA.
Mycoplasma felis is a Gram-Negative epierythrocytic parasitic bacterium that infects the red blood cells of infected cats. They are usually the causative agent of Feline Infectious Anaemia.
Toxoplasma is a zoonotic protozoan parasite that can cause varied symptoms in cats such as lethargy, depression, fever, weight loss, respiratory issues, seizures, etc. In humans, it is noted that if a pregnant woman were to be infected by the parasite, it would cause abortion. Thus, this test is used to identify if the cat has any concentration of Toxoplasma antibodies (igG and igM).
Tritrichomonas Blagburni is a flagellated parasite that infects the digestive tract of cats. Adult cats may not show symptoms, however kittens infected with the parasite may experience diarrhoea.
Trypsin-like immunoreactivity (TLI), Cobalamin and Folate are markers used to identify Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI). This disease is the inability to properly digest food due to a lack of digestive enzymes made by the pancreas. Symptoms may include digestive problems, malnutrition and/or improper absorption of nutrients in the body.
This test is used to identify the cause of respiratory symptoms displayed by the affected animal. The panel would include organisms such as Bordetella bronchiseptica, Chlamydophila felis, feline calicivirus, feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) Quant, H7N2 influenza virus, influenza A virus (includes H7N2, H3N2, H1N1, H3N8), and Mycoplasma felis.
Pyrexia, or otherwise known as fever, can be caused by a multitude of issues, including viral and parasitic-related infections. This test will test for a variety of diseases including Anaplasma spp., Bartonella spp., Cryptococcus spp., Cytauxzoon felis, Ehrlichia spp., feline calicivirus, feline coronavirus (FCoV), feline hemotropic mycoplasma (FHM), feline panleukopenia virus, FeLV, FIV, Salmonella spp. and Toxoplasma gondii RealPCR™ tests
SMALL MAMMAL TEST
This test is performed on blood or Cerebro-Spinal Fluid (CSF) samples to identify if there is presence of any aerobic organisms in the blood. It would be followed by a gram-staining for bacteria. This would help with the diagnosis of the animal as well as the treatment.
Pasteurella is a Gram-Negative bacterium that usually causes respiratory issues such as nasal discharge. Also known as Snuffles, most rabbits would be exposed to the bacteria some time in their lives, though symptoms may not be presented unless they are stressed.
AVIAN TESTS
For most domesticated birds, it is near impossible to identify their genders based on physical examination, unless their species happens to have sexual dimorphism. Therefore, molecular sexing by DNA is the best way to identify their genders, with the DNA obtained from feather samples.
TESTS FOR EXPORTATION
BRUCELLA CANIS Serology for Dogs (Tube Agglutination) |
LEPTOSPIRA CANICOLA Serology for Dogs (Microscopic Agglutination) |
SALMONELLA Culture (Including Avian) |
BABESIA GIBSONI Serology for Dogs (Immunofluorescent Assay) |
CANINE HEARTWORM (Antigen Test and Microfiliriae Concentration) |
ERLICHIA CANIS Serology for Dogs (Immunofluorescent Assay) |
HOOKWORM for Cats and Dogs (Faecal Floatation) |
LEISHMANIA INFANTUM and LEISHMANIA DONOVANI for dogs |
TOXOPLASMA GONDII Serology for Cats and Dogs (Immunofluorescent Assay) |