See also: Congenital abnormalities, abortion and arthrogryposis and hydranencephaly

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Akabane disease relies on history, pathological findings and the demonstration of antibodies to akabane virus in foetal fluids or serum samples taken from calves or lambs which have not fed from the mother.

Specimens required

1. At least 2 ml of foetal fluid (preferably pericardial or pleural rather than heart blood or peritoneal fluid which are more likely to be contaminated) for virus serology
   or,
   From a neonate, serum if the animal has not sucked.
2. Serum sample from the dam, submitted chilled. (This is only useful in eliminating a diagnosis of Akabane or Aino infection)
3. Brain, spinal cord and muscle in buffered formalin for histopathology.

NB.
Specimens should also be submitted to exclude pestivirus infection which can cause arthrogryposis and CNS lesions.