Vet Lab Manual

Summary of available bacteriology tests

A broad range of bacteriological tests for animal specimens, as well as animal products* and water testing,* are available. These include selective culture procedures and PCR assays* for a number of organisms.

Microscopy
Routine culture
Antibiotic sensitivity testing
Selective culture
PCR assays

Microscopy

Microscopy includes preparation and examination of wet mounts or stained smears. Wet mounts might be examined under transmitted light or using dark field or phase microscopy as determined by the organism being sought. A range of stains is available, the most common of which being Gram, dilute carbol fuchsin, Ziehl-Neelsen and modified Ziehl-Neelsen. The laboratory will select the most appropriate illumination or stain.

Routine culture

A broad range of media are available. We select the most appropriate medium and atmosphere to support the pathogens most likely to be recovered from the specimen. When indicated, we prepare and stain smears of the specimen. Where one or more isolates may be significant, further tests are performed to identify the organisms. There are additional laboratory charges for these identifications.

Antibiotic sensitivity testing

This is conducted only when requested. Testing is performed using the CDS disc diffusion method. Antibiotics are selected that are appropriate for the organism or condition from which it has been isolated.

Selective culture

Specimens may be inoculated into enrichment media before subculture onto selective media. Selective culture is available for the following organisms. Follow the link for more information on specimens required for each of the organisms listed below.

PCR assays *

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays are molecular diagnostic tests now available for the identification of isolates and detection in specimens. The PCR method allows the rapid detection of small numbers of organisms, organisms that are slow-growing, difficult or impossible to grow on the usual media and the detection of non-viable organisms.

No special precautions are required for the collection of samples for PCR. The general principles described in the Bacteriology section apply. Samples of each tissue should be submitted in individual sterile containers. Follow the link for more information on specimens required for each of the organisms listed.

* These assays are not NATA accredited.