EDS Lab Testing Services

Available exclusively at EDS this assay is our 2nd generation EPM test. The ELISA format contains 3 recombinant surface antigen proteins (SAG2/4/3) of the S. neurona parasite. An endpoint titer is generated providing quantified results based on the IgG response to SAGs 2, 3, or 4. These ELISA results correlate well with the standard western blot (1st generation EPM test), clinical diagnosis and necropsy. Paired serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are the recommended samples. Serum:CSF titer ratios are highly predictive for distinguishing EPM from other neurologic diseases. The titer ratio is based on the normal passive movement of antibody across the blood brain barrier at a serum:CSF ratio of 100. If antibodies are being produced intrathecally, this ratio will be less than 100 indicating an active immune response to the S. neurona parasite. In addition, all CSF samples submitted are tested for albumin levels. CSF samples with elevated albumin are suspect of blood contamination and a specific antibody index is recommended. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube and 1ml of CSF in a red top tube. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day. Serum can be tested alone; however the interpretation of serum results is to confirm exposure to S. neurona. A negative serum result is a good rule out for EPM caused by S. neurona. EDS archives samples for up to 2 years, so comparison testing of serum samples from different collection dates is available. Submit 1ml of serum from a red top tube. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

The S. neurona standard western blot performed at EDS is based on the original method developed and validated in the 1990s. It detects the IgG antibody response to S. neurona antigens resulting from exposure to and infection by the parasite. Results are semi-quantified (positive, low positive, weak positive, negative) based on intensity and the specific antigen banding patterns as compared to control sera. EDS lab recommends the SAG 2/4/3 ELISA for testing CSF. Submit 1ml of serum from a red top tube. TAT: Test is run Mon, Wed, and Fri with results available by the end of the day.

The PCR test detects S.neurona DNA and thus the actual presence of the parasite. This assay is performed on CSF and is best used in conjunction with the western blot or ELISA test. Submit 1ml CSF in an EDTA purple top tube. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available within 48 hours.

The Neospora hughesi ELISA utilises specific protein, SAG 1, found on the N. hughesi parasite. Serum and/or CSF samples can be tested for an IgG response to the recombinant NhSAG 1 protein. The ELISA generates an endpoint titer. Paired serum and CSF testing can be used to calculate a Serum:CSF titer ratio which is predictive for an EPM diagnosis. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube and/or 1ml CSF in a red top tube. TAT: Test is run Mon and Thurs with results available by the end of the day.

The PCR test detects S. equi bacterial DNA and is used primarily to identify asymptomatic carriers. EDS lab's PCR method employs two separate gene targets in the PCR reaction for improved specificity and sensitivity of test results. This PCR is an effective screening tool for systematically evaluating and managing resident and new horses on a property to control and prevent potential outbreaks. Nasal washes, nasal swabs or guttural pouch washes are appropriate samples for the S. equi PCR. Back up culture is also available. Submit 10-30ml nasal wash or guttural pouch wash in screw cap conical tube; or nasal swabs in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline). TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

This PCR is for S. zooepidemicus, a subspecies of S. equi. S. zooepidemicus is an opportunistic pathogen of horses associated with inflammatory airway disease, uterine infections and ulcerative keratitis. It is a zoonotic pathogen causing disease in a wide range of other animals including dogs and humans. This PCR can be done on samples submitted for a Respiratory panel or for R. equi PCR. Back up culture is also available. Submit 10-30ml nasal wash or guttural pouch wash in screw cap conical tube; or nasal swabs in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline) or 2-5ml trans-tracheal wash in a conical tube or a red top tube. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

The SeM ELISA test assesses the IgG endpoint titer against the highly immunogenic S. equi specific M protein. It is helpful for making vaccination decisions on horses with existing titers, identifying horses at risk of complications due to elevated titers, or for horses with aberrant abscesses (bastard strangles). The SeM ELISA should not be used to determine the infection status of horses with clinical signs of strangles. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube. TAT: Test is run on Tuesdays and Thursdays with results available by the end of the day.

This PCR test detects EHV-1 strains associated with respiratory disease, abortion, and neurologic disease. It will also distinguish if the ORF30 (DNA polymerase gene) mutation is present. The presence of this mutation has a high correlation with the neurological form of this disease, equine herpes myeloencephalopathy (EHM). Also of significance is that a less virulent form of neurologic disease can be caused by strains that do not carry this mutation. Viremia can be detected in the blood as soon as 4 days post infection. Viral shedding in nasal secretions can be detected as soon as 6 days post infection and can be detected for a longer time than it can in blood. Submission of both nasal wash/nasal swab and EDTA whole blood is recommended. Submit 5-10ml nasal wash in a conical tube, or nasal swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline); or 7ml whole blood in an EDTA purple top tube. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

This PCR test detects EHV-4 strains which are generally associated with respiratory disease. Submit a nasal swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline) TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

The PCR test identifies strains of R. equi that carry the virulence plasmid gene vapA. The vapA gene is highly associated with the ability to cause clinical disease and pneumonia in foals. R. equi is also associated with diarrhea in foals. A trans-tracheal wash is the recommended specimen for R. equi PCR, however, a nasal swab or fecal sample can also be tested. Back up culture is available. Submit 2-5ml trans-tracheal wash in a conical tube or a red top tube; or nasal swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline); or at least 10g feces in a screw top container. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri, respiratory sample results are available by the end of the day, fecal sample results are available by the end of the day following sample receipt (samples received on Friday will be reported on Monday).

The PCR test detects DNA from pathogenic species of Salmonella and can be used as a bio-surveillance tool for the identification of asymptomatic/shedding horses. This assay is also useful for the monitoring of in-patients in a hospital setting. Feces or a fecal swab is the recommended specimen. EDS lab is also able to test environmental swabs/dry wipes for Salmonella species. Submit at least 10g feces in a screw top container or fecal swab in a red top tube. For environmental samples, submit 1 swab/dry wipe per area to be tested in a zipper bag. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri, an overnight enrichment is done prior to PCR set up. Results are available by end of the day following sample receipt (samples received on Friday will be reported on Monday).

This test detects the H3N8 and H7N7 (New York) strains of EIV. A nasal swab is the recommended sample. EIV PCR is included in the respiratory panels. Submit a nasal swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline); or 10-30ml nasal wash in a screw cap conical tube. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

Equine Rhinitis Virus type A and type B are both detected by this test. Urine is the recommended sample for this respiratory pathogen as shedding by the urinary tract has a longer detection window than in nasal secretions; a nasal swab or wash can also be tested. This test is part of our expanded respiratory panel. Submit 2-5ml urine in a red top tube or screw cap conical tube; or nasal swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline); or 10-30ml nasal wash in a screw cap conical tube. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

EAV RNA is detected by this PCR test. Arteritis virus is associated with respiratory disease in horses but more significantly may be associated with abortions. Appropriate specimens for submission include nasal swabs or washes, semen, whole blood (EDTA), or ocular swabs. PCR is not an accepted test method for export. This test is part of our expanded respiratory panel. Submit a nasal swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline); or 10-30ml nasal wash in a screw cap conical tube; or 2-5ml semen in a red top tube; or 7ml whole blood in an EDTA purple top tube; or ocular swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline).

The ELISA for Lawsonia intracelluris is a 2nd generation assay in an ELISA format. It detects serum antibodies against L. intracelluris which with concurrent hypoalbuminemia or hypoproteinemia supports a diagnosis of equine proliferative enteropathy (EPE). A serum albumin test is also available from EDS. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube. TAT: Test is run Mon and Wed, with results available by the end of the day.

Lawsonia intracellularis infection is associated with equine proliferative enteropathy. Clinical signs include fever, lethargy, diarrhea, weight loss, and colic. The PCR for Lawsonia intracellularis is performed on feces. This test can be ordered separately or is a part of the foal GI panel. Submit 10 grams of feces in a screw cap container or a fecal swab in a red top tube. Liquid feces can be placed in a red top tube for submission. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

The C. difficile PCR tests for strains that produce the A or B toxin. This test can be ordered separately or is a part of the adult and foal GI panels. Submit 10 grams of feces in a screw cap container or a fecal swab in a red top tube. Liquid feces can be placed in a red top tube for submission. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

The C. perfringens PCR tests for the presence of C. perfringens initially. If present, PCR will be performed for strains producing the 4 toxins, A, B, E, and NetF. This test can be ordered separately or is a part of the adult and foal GI panels. Submit 10 grams of feces in a screw cap container or a fecal swab in a red top tube. Liquid feces can be placed in a red top tube for submission. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day, toxin results available at the end of the next day for positive samples.

The Cryptosporidium PCR tests for species of Cryptosporidium causing diarrhea in foals. This test can be ordered separately or is a part of the foal GI panel. Submit 10 grams of feces in a screw cap container or a fecal swab in a red top tube. Liquid feces can be placed in a red top tube for submission. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

Equine Coronavirus is detected by this test. Equine Coronavirus is a highly communicable causative agent of fever and diarrhea in horses. This test can be ordered separately or is a part of the adult and foal GI panels. Submit 10 grams of feces in a screw cap container or a fecal swab in a red top tube. Liquid feces can be placed in a red top tube for submission. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

This test detects Neorickettsia risticii the causative agent of Potomac Horse Fever (PHF). Horses ingest the intermediate host for PHF and become infected with N. risticii. Once infected, a horse will present with fever, anorexia, and diarrhea. This infection can also lead to abortion and laminitis. This test can be ordered separately or is a part of the adult and foal GI panels. Submit 10 grams of feces in a screw cap container or a fecal swab in a red top tube. Liquid feces can be placed in a red top tube for submission. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

Group A rotavirus is a common pathogen causing diarrhea in foals. There are several genotypes of Group A rotavirus including G3 and G14 of which both types are known to cause diarrhea in foals. A vaccine is available for pregnant mares in order to produce antibodies which can be transferred to foals in the colostrum. The G3 type is included in the vaccine, G14 is not. The rotavirus PCR assay performed at EDS is a multiplex assay that detects both G3 and G14 types. This test can be ordered separately or is a part of the foal GI panel. Submit 10 grams of feces in a screw cap container or a fecal swab in a red top tube. Liquid feces can be placed in a red top tube for submission. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

The IgM ELISA test is used to detect recent exposure to the west nile virus. The presence of IgM antibodies against WNV is diagnostic of current or recent infection. Vaccination has not been shown to interfere with this test. The WNV IgM ELISA is available separately and included in our neurologic panels. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube. TAT: WNV test days vary by season, winter & spring Wed only, summer & fall Mon and Wed, with results available the next day.

EDS is a federally accredited lab for this regulated testing and offers both approved test formats: AGID (Coggins) and ELISA. Our laboratory is now accepting electronic EIA forms submitted through the USDA/APHIS Veterinary Process streaming (VSPS) portal. The electronic service is free to accredited veterinarians and laboratories. Please submit a fully completed and signed form with each sample. Submit 7ml blood in a red top tube along with completed manual form or print out of electronic form. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with ELISA results available by the end of the day. AGID results available by the end of the next day.

The titer ratio panel includes the S. neurona SAG 2/4/3 ELISA on both serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). An antibody titer for each sample type is obtained and the ratio of serum antibody to CSF antibody is calculated. Serum:CSF titer ratios of < 100 are indicative of active S. neurona infection, ratios of > 100 do not support an EPM diagnosis. Titer ratios that are =100 are best interpreted by adding on a specific antibody index. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube and 1ml of CSF in a red top tube. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

The S. neurona panel includes both the western blot and a SAG 2/4/3 ELISA and can be performed on either serum or CSF. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube or 1ml of CSF in a red top tube. TAT: SAG 2/4/3 ELISA tests are run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day; western blot tests are run Mon, Wed, Fri with results available by the end of the day.

The S. neurona and N. hughesi ELISA panel includes a S. neurona SAG 2/4/3 ELISA and a N. hughesi ELISA on either serum or CSF. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube or 1ml of CSF in a red top tube. TAT: SAG 2/4/3 ELISA tests are run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day; N. hughesi tests are run Mon and Thu with results available by the end of the day.

The titer ratio panel includes the N. hughesi ELISA on both serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). An antibody titer for each sample type is obtained and the ratio of serum antibody to CSF antibody is calculated. Serum:CSF titer ratios of < 100 are indicative of active N. hughesi infection, ratios of > 100 do not support an EPM diagnosis. Titer ratios that are =100 are best interpreted by adding on a specific antibody index. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube and 1ml of CSF in a red top tube. TAT: Test is run Mon and Thu with results available by the end of the day.

This panel includes both the S. neurona SAG 2/4/3 titer ratio and the N. hughesi titer ratio. This test offers our most comprehensive diagnostic tool for EPM. An antibody titer for each sample type is obtained and the ratio of serum antibody to CSF antibody is calculated. Serum:CSF titer ratios of < 100 are indicative of active infection, ratios of > 100 do not support an EPM diagnosis. Titer ratios that are =100 are best interpreted by adding on a specific antibody index. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube or 1ml of CSF in a red top tube. TAT: SAG 2/4/3 ELISA tests are run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day; N. hughesi tests are run Mon and Thu with results available by the end of the day.

The EDS foal diarrhea panel uses real-time PCR to identify 9 pathogens known to cause diarrhea in young horses. Our panel includes Clostridim difficile toxins A & B, Clostridium perfringens toxins A, B, E, & NetF, Cryptosporidium spp., Lawsonia intracellularis, Neorickettsia risticii (PHF), Salmonella spp., Rhodococcus equi, Equine Coronavirus, and Rotavirus. Our Rotavirus assay is unique in that it also includes distinguishes the G3 strain (for which vaccination should be protective) and the G14 strain (for which the vaccine does not provide protection). Submit 10 grams of feces in a screw cap container or 3 fecal swabs in red top tubes. Liquid feces can be placed in a red top tube for submission. TAT: Tests are run daily Mon-Fri, complete panel results available by the end of the next day (Fri submissions will be completed Mon).

The adult diarrhea panel includes real-time PCR for C. difficile toxins A & B, C. perfringens toxin E, Equine Coronavirus, N. risticii (PHF), and Salmonella spp. Submit 10 grams of feces in a screw cap container or 2 fecal swabs in red top tubes. Liquid feces can be placed in a red top tube for submission. TAT: Tests are run daily Mon-Fri, complete panel results available by the end of the next day (Fri submissions will be completed Mon).

The panel includes the ELISA and real-time PCR for L. intracellularis. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube and 10 grams feces in a screw cap container (or fecal swab in a red top tube). TAT: PCR tests are run daily with results available by the end of the day. The ELISA test days are Mon and Wed with results available by the end of the day.

The neurologic panel I includes the S. neurona SAG2/4/3 Serum:CSF ratio for EPM, WNV IgM capture ELISA, and real-time PCR for EHV-1. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube, 1ml CSF in a red top tube and either a nasal swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline) or 7ml whole blood in an EDTA purple top tube. Both sample types may be submitted for EHV-1 testing for an additional fee. TAT: EPM and EHV-1 tests are run daily with results available by the end of the day; WNV test days vary by season (winter & spring Wed only, summer & fall Mon and Wed) with results available the next day.

The neurologic panel II includes the S. neurona SAG 2/4/3 ELISA test on serum for EPM, WNV IgM capture ELISA, and real-time PCR for EHV-1. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube and either a nasal swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline) or 7ml whole blood in an EDTA purple top tube. Both sample types may be submitted for EHV-1 testing for an additional fee. TAT: EPM and EHV-1 tests are run daily with results available by the end of the day; WNV test days vary by season (winter & spring Wed only, summer & fall Mon and Wed) with results available the next day.

The neurologic panel III includes the S. neurona EPM western blot, WNV IgM capture ELISA, and real-time PCR for EHV-1. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube and either a nasal swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline) or 7ml whole blood in an EDTA purple top tube. Both sample types may be submitted for EHV-1 testing for an additional fee. TAT: EPM western blot test days are Mon, Wed, Fri with results by the end of the day; EHV-1 PCR is run daily with results available by the end of the day; WNV test days vary by season (winter & spring Wed only, summer & fall Mon and Wed) with results available the next day.

The EPM and west nile virus combination includes a S. neurona SAG 2/4/3 ELISA and a WNV IgM capture ELISA. Submit 1ml of serum from a red top tube. TAT: EPM tests are run daily with results available by the end of the day; WNV test days vary by season (winter & spring Wed only, summer & fall Mon and Wed) with results available the next day.

The EPM ratio and west nile virus combination includes a S. neurona SAG 2/4/3 ELISA on both serum and CSF to calculate the titer ratio and a WNV IgM capture ELISA. Submit 1ml of serum from a red top tube and 1ml of CSF in a red top tube. TAT: EPM tests are run daily with results available by the end of the day; WNV test days vary by season (winter & spring Wed only, summer & fall Mon and Wed) with results available the next day.

The EHV-1 PCR panel includes PCR for both a nasal swab or wash and an EDTA blood. Many state veterinarians request both sample types be tested during an EHV-1 outbreak. Submit 5-10ml nasal wash in a conical tube, or nasal swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline); And 7ml whole blood in an EDTA purple top tube. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

The standard respiratory panel includes real-time PCR for S. equi, EHV-1, EHV-4 and EIV. Submit a nasal swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline), or 10-30ml nasal wash in a screw cap conical tube. TAT: Testing is performed daily with results available by end of the day.

The extended respiratory panel includes real-time PCR for S. equi, EHV-1, EHV-4, EIV, equine rhinitis virus A and B (ERAV and ERBV) and equine arteritis virus (EAV). Submit a nasal swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline), or 10-30ml nasal wash in a screw cap conical tube. A urine sample may also be submitted for ERAV and ERBV, 5ml urine in a red top tube. TAT: Testing is performed daily with results available by end of the day.

The EHV panel includes real-time PCR for EHV-1 and EHV-4. Submit a nasal swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline), or 10-30ml nasal wash in a screw cap conical tube. TAT: Testing is performed daily with results available by end of the day.

Hypoalbuminemia is associated with EPE from Lawsonia intracellularis infections. Albumin levels in serum are helpful in the diagnosis of this infection. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube. TAT: Test is run Mon and Wed, with results available by the end of the day.

An additional sample type and test for EHV-1 may be added on to any panel containing EHV-1 PCR within it. Submit 5-10ml nasal wash in a conical tube, or nasal swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline); or 7ml whole blood in an EDTA purple top tube. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

The CSF analysis includes total protein, albumin, manual cell count and cytospin slide review by a technologist. Submit 1ml CSF in red top tube and 1ml CSF in EDTA tube. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

The specific antibody index is performed on paired serum and CSF samples in conjunction with the S. neurona SAG 2/4/3 or N. hughesi ELISAs. This test can help discern an intrathecal IgG response from contamination by utilizing a ratio of serum and CSF albumin and IgG levels. It is very helpful in the interpretation of results when the CSF has been contaminated with blood or when the Serum:CSF ratio is equal to 100. Submit 1ml serum from a red top tube and 1ml of CSF in a red top tube. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available by the end of the day.

EDS lab uses gram positive selective media to isolate and identify beta-hemolytic streptococcus spp. The culture back up does not include antibiotic sensitivities. Submit 10-30ml nasal wash or guttural pouch wash in screw cap conical tube; or nasal swabs in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline). TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available in 2-4 days.

A back up culture for the R. equi PCR is also available. EDS uses gram positive selective media to identify colonies of R. equi. This does not include antibiotic sensitivities. Submit 2-5ml trans-tracheal wash in a conical tube or a red top tube; or nasal swab in a red top tube (dry or in 0.5ml sterile saline); ); or at least 10g feces in a screw top container. TAT: Test is run daily Mon-Fri with results available in 2-4 days.