| New VMDL PCR Testing The molecular diagnostics section would like to inform you of the addition of two new tests, real-time PCR for Tritrichomonas foetus and real-time PCR for Potomac Horse Fever (Neorickettsia risticii).
Tritrichomonas foetus for PCR, as well as for culture, requires that the smegma sample be put in an In Pouch, which is available by request from the lab. PCR testing can be done after 48 hours of incubation, whereas culture results must be read for 7 days, with equivalent detection sensitivity. If you are shipping cattle to another state, make sure you check their requirements for methodology and if multiple samples must be taken from the animal. The test costs $27 and pooling is not available.
For Potomac Horse Fever , feces or EDTA blood tubes are acceptable samples. The cost of the test is also $27. |