Abortion investigation

Abortion in cattle

Description

Generally, in more than 60% of cases investigated for abortion, the underlying cause is attributed to an unidentified genetic or environmental factor including congenital abnormalities, stress, twinning and toxic factors.

Common infectious causes of abortion in New South Wales are bacterial infections (Campylobacter, Leptospira, Salmonella, Listeria, miscellaneous bacteria), viral (Pestivirus), protozoal (Neospora) or fungal (Aspergillus, Mortierella) infections. These agents may affect the dam or the foetus. Viral infections (Pestivirus, Akabane) may cause congenital abnormalities. Clinical signs may be minimal. Necropsy findings vary with no visible abnormalities to wide range of pathological abnormalities.

Diagnosis and tests available

Diagnosis

For the best diagnostic outcome, please discuss a diagnostic plan with the duty pathologist.

Tests available

Click on + in the tables below for sampling requirements and additional test information

Code

Name

Samples required

Species

Turnaround time

Price (excl. GST)

Notes

Test days

AER_CLT

Aerobic routine culture

Tissue, PM sample, swab

All species

3-5D

$55.20

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

AER_CLT_ID

Aerobic bacterial Identification

From culture

All species

Up to 7D

$17.15

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

AKA_ABEL

Akabane Virus Antibody ELISA

Clotted blood (Red top tube)

10 ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) from the dam or neonate that has not suckled collected in a plain red top tube.
Submit chilled

Foetal fluid

2 mL pericardial, pleural or peritoneal (in order of preference) submitted chilled
Test for IgG initially (cattle only) and if levels are elevated test for Akabane virus antibodies if appropriate
Please note on the submission form if colostrum was given to a neonate

Bovine, Ovine, Caprine

Up to 7D

$15.55

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Batch tested weekly. Contact Customer Service to confirm the day of test set-up.

CAMP_CLT

Campylobacter spp. culture

Foetal stomach contents*

C. fetus subsp. venerealis is most successfully isolated from aborted foetuses submitted to the laboratory, because the organism is not exposed to normal atmospheric conditions, and where samples can be collected without contamination and then directly cultured under microaerophilic conditions.

Foetal stomach contents, collected in a sterile container, must be delivered within 6 hours of collection, otherwise it must be transported in Campylobacter Enrichment Transport Medium (CETM).
CETM is available from the laboratory upon request*.
IMPORTANT - Do not submit chilled as organisms are sensitive to the cold.

COLLECTING, PACKAGING & SHIPPING

Label all samples with the date of collection and official animal identification, making sure the key-list is also included.
Samples should be packaged so they are protected from extreme heat and cold and maintained at room temperature (18 – 37^oc) while in transit.
Please submit in an esky with NO ice bricks or gel packs. Please contact the laboratory to discuss the best way to submit samples during hot weather conditions.
Packing should comply with IATA biological substances transport requirements.
Samples of ‘export animals for breeding’ should be received by the laboratory within 24 hours of sampling
Schedule shipments to avoid weekend and holiday delivery of samples to the laboratory. The laboratory should receive all other samples within 24 to 48 hours after collection.
If it is suspected that samples have been exposed to temperatures outside of the optimal range of 5^oc to 37^oc, target pathogen viability could have been affected. The laboratory reserves the right not to test these samples (refer to terms and conditions).

Bovine

$82.10

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

*For sample collection, refer to the Campylobacter and Tritrichomonas sample collection guide pdf

Monday to Friday

CAMP_NIP

Campylobacter fetus subsp. venerealis culture

Preputial wash or scraping or vaginal swab (in CETM)

Preputial wash or scrapings from bulls or vaginal samples from cows submitted at room temperature in Campylobacter Enrichment Transport Medium (CETM).
Collect samples as per the Sample Collection Guideline for Bulls and Cows
CETM and phosphate buffered saline (PBS) is available from the laboratory upon request*.
IMPORTANT - Do not submit chilled as organisms are sensitive to the cold

COLLECTING, PACKAGING AND SHIPPING

Label all samples with the date of collection and official animal identification, making sure the keylist is also included.
Media must be removed from the fridge and left for 30 minutes at room temperature or until it reaches ambient temperature (20-35°C) prior to use.
Collected samples in CETM should be stored and forwarded to the laboratory at room temperature (20-35°C) while in transit.
Please submit in an esky with NO frozen / cooled ice brick or gel packs, complying with IATA biological substances transport requirements. Samples should be packaged so they are protected from extreme heat and cold.
Schedule shipments to avoid weekend and holiday delivery of samples to the laboratory. The laboratory should receive the samples within 24 (export animals for breeding) to 48 hours after collection.
If it is suspected that samples have been exposed to temperatures outside of the optimal range of 20^oc to 35^oc, then it is likely that the target pathogen is no longer viable, and therefore the integrity of the test results are compromised. The laboratory reserves the right not to test these samples (link to T&Cs)

Bovine

7D²

$59.30

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

*For sample collection, refer to the Campylobacter and Tritrichomonas sample collection guide pdf

² 7 days for cultures with no C. fetus-like colonies

Monday to Friday

HIST_HE1

Histopathology – Preparation & Examination

Fixed Tissues- General

Fresh tissues immediately placed in formalin
Tissue pieces should not be greater than 1cm cubed to ensure proper fixation
- Submit fixed in neutral buffered formalin at a 10:1 ratio of formalin: tissue

Fixed Tissues- Nervous tissues

Submission of whole brain is required to ensure preservation of TSE target sites
- submit fixed in neutral buffered formalin at a ratio of 10:1 formalin: tissue
Brains submitted for Nervous tissues are processed once a week, separate to general tissues to ensure consistent and reliable results. Urgent cases can be processed out of cycle if clearly marked on the Submission Form however this may reduce the quality of the brain histology results, so should only be requested in extremely urgent cases.

Fresh Tissues

Fresh tissues can be submitted following necropsy
The quality of the tissues will be reduced due to the effects of autolysis so ideally fixed tissue should be submitted in neutral buffered formalin at a ratio of 10:1 formalin: tissue

All species

Up to 10D

$84.95

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Monday - Friday

Various

Histopathology – Special Stain

On Request

All species

Up to 5D

$54.20

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

A variety of special stains are maintained and can be performed on request. Refer to our Histology Special Stain Page for further information.

Monday - Friday

IGG_AGID

Immunoglobulin G (Bovine) AGID

Clotted blood (Red top)

Foetal fluid

Bovine

Up to 7D

$25.35

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

L_AUS_MA

Leptospira Australis MAT

Clotted blood (Red top)

10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube
- Submit chilled

Aborted foetus

Whole aborted foetus with membranes
- Submit chilled

Bovine

Up to 5D

POA- Outsourced Currently

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Wednesday and Thursday

L_CAN_MA

Leptospira Canicola MAT

Clotted blood (Red top)

10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube
- Submit chilled

Aborted foetus

Whole aborted foetus with membranes
- Submit chilled

Bovine, Canine

Up to 5D

POA- Outsourced Currently

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Wednesday and Thursday

L_COP_MA

Leptospira Copenhageni MAT

Clotted blood (Red top)

10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube
- Submit chilled

Aborted foetus

Whole aborted foetus with membranes
- Submit chilled

Bovine, Canine, Feline

Up to 5D

POA- Outsourced Currently

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Wednesday and Thursday

L_GRI_MA

Leptospira Grippotyphosa MAT

Clotted blood (Red top)

10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube
- Submit chilled

Aborted foetus

Whole aborted foetus with membranes
- Submit chilled

Bovine, Canine, Caprine, Feline

Up to 5D

POA- Outsourced Currently

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Wednesday and Thursday

L_HAR_MA

Leptospira Hardjo MAT

Clotted blood (Red top)

10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube
- Submit chilled

Aborted foetus

Whole aborted foetus with membranes
- Submit chilled

Bovine, Ovine

Up to 5D

POA- Outsourced Currently

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Wednesday and Thursday

L_POM_MA

Leptospira Pomona MAT

Clotted blood (Red top)

10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube
- Submit chilled

Aborted foetus

Whole aborted foetus with membranes
- Submit chilled

Bovine, Caprine, Equine, Porcine, Ovine

Up to 5D

POA- Outsourced Currently

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Wednesday and Thursday

L_TAR_MA

Leptospira Tarassovi MAT

Clotted blood (Red top)

10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube
- Submit chilled

Aborted foetus

Whole aborted foetus with membranes
- Submit chilled

Bovine, Equine, Porcine

Up to 5D

POA- Outsourced Currently

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Wednesday and Thursday

L_ZAN_MA

Leptospira Zanoni MAT

Clotted blood (Red top)

10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube
- Submit chilled

Aborted foetus

Whole aborted foetus with membranes
- Submit chilled

Bovine

Up to 5D

POA- Outsourced Currently

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Wednesday and Thursday

LEPTO_PCR

Leptospira sp. Real–time PCR*

Urine

Aborted Foetus

Whole aborted foetus with membranes
- Submit chilled

Fresh Tissue

Kidney and other tissues

Embryo flush fluids

PCR from culture

Bovine, Ovine, Porcine, Companion Animals

$109.35

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Monday to Friday

LIST_CULT

Listeria sp. - Selective culture

Fresh tissue

Fresh brain, liver, spleen, and kidney
- Collect aseptically.
- Submit chilled.

Fluid

Cerebrospinal fluid collected aseptically from neurologically affected animals.
- Submit chilled.

Aborted foetus

Whole foetus and membranes
- Submit chilled.

All species

$82.10

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Monday – Saturday

Note: Prior approval of delivery and testing on Saturday is required. Please contact Customer Service on 1800 675 623 to seek approval.

NEO_ABEL

Neospora caninum Antibody ELISA*

Serum (Red top)

At least 2mL of serum collected into a plan red top tube.
- Submit chilled.

Plasma (Green or Purple top)

At least 2mL of plasma collected into a plain Lith-Hep (Green top tube) or EDTA (purple top tube)
- Submit chilled

Milk

Preserved milk
- Submit chilled.

Bovine, Ovine and Caprine

Up to 5D

$19.40

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Monday- Friday

PEST_AGID

Pestivirus Antibody AGID (BVD)

Clotted blood (Red top)

10 ml of blood collected in a plain red top tube submitted chilled

Foetal fluid

Pericardial, pleural or peritoneal (in order of preference).
Submit chilled
Please note on the submission form if colostrum was given to a neonate

Bovine

3-5D

$25.35

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Tuesday & Friday

PEST_SK_SE

Pestivirus Antigen ELISA (PACE) – Serum or Skin (PRICE TIER A: 1–9 samples)

Clotted blood (Red top)

10 ml of blood into a plain red top tube (animals >2months)
- Do not use serum separator tubes.
- Submit chilled

Ear Notch- - Dead animals and foetuses

Ear notch (skin) can be used for animals of any age
- Submit chilled in sterile container or in Pestivirus ear notch media
- When sampling groups of >10 animals, ear notch samples should be submitted in ear notch media (media can be requested online)

Fresh Tissues- - Dead animals and foetuses

Spleen, lung or lymph node
- Submit chilled

Bovine

5-7D

$20.05

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Batch tested 2-3 times weekly

PEST_SK_SE

Pestivirus Antigen ELISA (PACE) – Serum or Skin (PRICE TIER B:10-19 samples)

Clotted blood (Red top)

10 ml of blood into a plain red top tube (animals >2months)
- Do not use serum separator tubes.
- Submit chilled

Ear Notch- - Dead animals and foetuses

Ear notch (skin) can be used for animals of any age
- Submit chilled in sterile container or in Pestivirus ear notch media
- When sampling groups of >10 animals, ear notch samples should be submitted in ear notch media (media can be requested online)

Fresh Tissues- - Dead animals and foetuses

Spleen, lung or lymph node
- Submit chilled

Bovine

5-7D

$14.75

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Batch tested 2-3 times weekly

PEST_SK_SE

Pestivirus Antigen ELISA (PACE) – Serum or Skin (PRICE TIER C:>20 samples)

Clotted blood (Red top)

10 ml of blood into a plain red top tube (animals >2months)
- Do not use serum separator tubes.
- Submit chilled

Ear Notch- - Dead animals and foetuses

Ear notch (skin) can be used for animals of any age
- Submit chilled in sterile container or in Pestivirus ear notch media
- When sampling groups of >10 animals, ear notch samples should be submitted in ear notch media (media can be requested online)

Fresh Tissues- - Dead animals and foetuses

Spleen, lung or lymph node
- Submit chilled

Bovine

5-7D

$12.60

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Batch tested 2-3 times weekly

PEST_RTPCR

Pestivirus Real–time PCR

Clotted Blood (Red top)

10 ml of blood collected into a plain red top tube
- Do not use serum separator tubes.
- Submit chilled

EDTA blood (Purple top)

10 ml of blood collected into an EDTA purple tube
- Submitted chilled

Milk

Bulk milk
- Submit chilled, ideally in milk preservative.
- If milk preservative is unavailable samples may be frozen prior to submission.

Swab in PBGS

Nasal swab collected from affected animal sent in viral transport media (PBGS)
- PBGS can be requested online
- Used in cases of respiratory disease, to detect acute infections rather than PI animals.

Fresh Tissue- Dead animals and foetuses

Spleen, lung or lymph node
- Submit chilled in an insulated container

Semen

Semen straws or raw semen (please contact Customer Service prior to submission. For regulatory testing samples must be shipped at specified temperatures.

Bovine

2-3D

$109.35

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

SALM_CLT

Salmonella – Selective culture

Fresh tissue

Portions of liver, kidney, lung, bile, spleen, mesenteric lymph nodes and small intestinal contents collected from dead animals.
- Submit chilled.

Faeces

Faecal samples can be submitted from live animals.
- Submit chilled.
- MINIMUM of 20 grams required per animal (ruminants) for export of health testing.

Environmental samples

All species

3-7D¹

$82.10

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

¹4 - 7 working days for export, health testing or environmental samples

Monday to Saturday¹

PM_FCOW

Post Mortem Large Animal- Cow Foetus

Whole Animal

Animals must be recently euthanised or freshly dead.
Submit chilled in an insulated container.
Freezing animals for post mortem is not recommended, as it interferes with diagnostic testing (e.g. bacterial culture and histology).
Animals may be frozen if the interval between euthanasia and post mortem will be greater than 24 hours, however further diagnostic testing will be limited.

Bovine

Necropsy reports are issued up to 14D after completion of necropsy.

$76.95

1 cow foetus
Final selection of the appropriate post mortem type is at the discretion of the pathologist performing the necropsy.
Post mortem charges do not include additional diagnostic testing (e.g. bacterial culture, or histopathology).
Animals for post mortem examination must be packaged and labelled appropriately, and accompanied by a completed submission form.
Contact the laboratory to ensure the correct samples are collected, and further testing is performed as requested. Please contact Customer Service to discuss a diagnostic plan.
D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

According to demand

TOX_ABE_ID

Toxoplasma gondii Indirect ELISA*

Clotted Blood/Serum (Red top)

10 ml of blood (including at least 2ml of serum) from aborting animals and 5-10 in-contact animals.
Submit chilled.
Collected into a plain red top tube.
Clearly document on the specimen submission form of each animal samples and clearly identify which animal aborted.

Caprine, Ovine, Companion

Up to 5D

$16.60

* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation.

D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.

Monday- Friday

Specimen requirements

Aborted foetus

Whole foetus and foetal membrane
- Submit chilled in an insulated container

Blood (with anti-coagulant)

Blood from aborting animals and unsuckled neonates
- Submit chilled
- Clearly document each animal and identify which animal aborted on the specimen advice form

Blood (without anti-coagulant)

10 ml of blood from aborting animals, unsuckled neonates and from five to ten in-contact animals collected in plain red top tube
- Submit chilled
- Clearly document each animal and identify which animal aborted on the specimen advice form

Foetal fluid

Pericardial or pleural fluid from foetus or unsuckled calf
Fresh foetal stomach contents, placenta, liver, lung and spleen
- Submit chilled
- Detecting immunoglobulins in foetal fluids after 120 days of gestation, or in unsuckled neonates, may indicate abortion due to an infectious agent

Fresh tissue

For pestivirus antigen ELISA (PACE) spleen, lung, lymph node and ear notch are s
- Submit chilled

Milk

Bulk milk
- Submit chilled

Swab

Nasal swab collected from affected animal
- Send in viral transport media (PBGS)

Abortion in horses

Description

Common infectious agents responsible for equine abortion include Streptococcus spp., Staphylococcus spp., Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Klebsiella spp., leptospirosis, equine herpesvirus and fungi.

Non-infectious causes may include maternal pyrexia and malnutrition, cord compression abnormalities, endocrine dysfunction, endometrial incompetence and immunological factors.

The diagnosis of abortion in horses can be greatly enhanced by the provision of a clear history and the submission of appropriate samples.

Recent investigations suggest that Chlamydia psittaci could be associated with equine abortion.

Diagnosis and tests available

Diagnosis

For the best diagnostic outcome, please discuss a diagnostic plan with the duty pathologist.

Tests available

Click on + in the tables below for sampling requirements and additional test information

Code	Name	Samples required	Species	Turnaround time	Price (excl. GST)	Notes	Test days
FUNG_CLT	Fungi – Selective culture	Tissue PM sample Swab	All species	7D	$82.10	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
AER_CLT	Aerobic routine culture	Tissue, PM sample, swab	All species	3-5D	$55.20	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
AER_CLT_ID	Aerobic bacterial Identification	From culture	All species	Up to 7D	$17.15	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
SEN_N_GEN	Antibiotic Sensitivity - Gram Negative Organisms - General	From culture	All species	3D	$24.45	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
SEN_P_GEN	Antibiotic Sensitivity - Gram Positive Organisms - General	From culture	All species	3D	$24.45	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
CHLAME_MLT	Chlamydia abortion multiplex - Equine PCR panel (Includes C.abortus, C.genus, and C.psittaci)*	Fresh Tissue- Placenta and Lung Placenta and lung collected from post mortem Submit chilled	Equine	5D	$137.80	* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation. D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	As required
EHV1_PCR	Equine Herpes Virus 1 (EHV1) Real–time PCR*	Equine Herpes Abortion Investigation: Fresh tissue Liver, lung, spleen, thymus and placenta Submit chilled Equine Rhinopneumonitis Respiratory/Neurological Investigation: Swab in PBGS (preferred) Nasal/nasopharyngeal swabs are the preferred sample type for the diagnosis of equine rhinopneumonitis Send in viral transport media (PGBS) Horse Export Testing EDTA blood (purple top)- 10 ml of EDTA blood collected into a purple top tube. Submit chilled	Equine	2-3D	$109.35	* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation. D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	According to demand
EHV4_PCR	Equine Herpes Virus 4 (EHV4) Real–time PCR*	Equine Rhinopneumonitis Respiratory/Neurological Investigation: Swab in PBGS (preferred) Nasal/nasopharyngeal swabs are the preferred sample type for the diagnosis of equine rhinopneumonitis Send in viral transport media (PGBS) EDTA blood (purple top) 10 ml of EDTA blood collected into a purple top tube. Submit chilled	Equine	2-3D	$109.35	* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation. D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	According to demand
HIST_HE1	Histopathology – Preparation & Examination	Fixed Tissues- General Fresh tissues immediately placed in formalin Tissue pieces should not be greater than 1cm cubed to ensure proper fixation Submit fixed in neutral buffered formalin at a 10:1 ratio of formalin: tissue Fixed Tissues- Nervous tissues Submission of whole brain is required to ensure preservation of TSE target sites submit fixed in neutral buffered formalin at a ratio of 10:1 formalin: tissue Brains submitted for Nervous tissues are processed once a week, separate to general tissues to ensure consistent and reliable results. Urgent cases can be processed out of cycle if clearly marked on the Submission Form however this may reduce the quality of the brain histology results, so should only be requested in extremely urgent cases. Fresh Tissues Fresh tissues can be submitted following necropsy The quality of the tissues will be reduced due to the effects of autolysis so ideally fixed tissue should be submitted in neutral buffered formalin at a ratio of 10:1 formalin: tissue	All species	Up to 10D	$84.95	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Monday - Friday
Various	Histopathology – Special Stain	On Request	All species	Up to 5D	$54.20	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays. A variety of special stains are maintained and can be performed on request. Refer to our Histology Special Stain Page for further information.	Monday - Friday
L_POM_MA	Leptospira Pomona MAT	Clotted blood (Red top) 10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube Submit chilled Aborted foetus Whole aborted foetus with membranes Submit chilled	Bovine, Caprine, Equine, Porcine, Ovine	Up to 5D	POA- Outsourced Currently	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Wednesday and Thursday
L_TAR_MA	Leptospira Tarassovi MAT	Clotted blood (Red top) 10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube Submit chilled Aborted foetus Whole aborted foetus with membranes Submit chilled	Bovine, Equine, Porcine	Up to 5D	POA- Outsourced Currently	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Wednesday and Thursday
SALM_CLT	Salmonella – Selective culture	Fresh tissue Portions of liver, kidney, lung, bile, spleen, mesenteric lymph nodes and small intestinal contents collected from dead animals. Submit chilled. Faeces Faecal samples can be submitted from live animals. Submit chilled. MINIMUM of 20 grams required per animal (ruminants) for export of health testing. Environmental samples	All species	3-7D¹	$82.10	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays. ¹4 - 7 working days for export, health testing or environmental samples	Monday to Saturday¹
SEQUI_CULT	Streptococcus equi subsp. equi – Selective culture	Pus, swab in Amies transport media Swab collected from lesions and/or upper respiratory tract. Submit chilled in transport media (Amies gel) for culture. N.B Swabs submitted in Amies transport media cannot be used for PCR.	Equine	Within 48 hours (Monday-Thursday submissions) Within 96 hours (Friday submissions)	$82.10	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Monday – Saturday Note: Prior approval of delivery and testing on Saturday is required. Please contact Customer Service on 1800 675 623 to seek approval.
PM_FHORSE	Post Mortem Large Animal- Horse Foetus	Whole Animal Animals must be recently euthanised or freshly dead. Submit chilled in an insulated container. Freezing animals for post mortem is not recommended, as it interferes with diagnostic testing (e.g. bacterial culture and histology). Animals may be frozen if the interval between euthanasia and post mortem will be greater than 24 hours, however further diagnostic testing will be limited.	Equine	Necropsy reports are issued up to 14D after completion of necropsy.	$76.95	1 horse foetus Final selection of the appropriate post mortem type is at the discretion of the pathologist performing the necropsy. Post mortem charges do not include additional diagnostic testing (e.g. bacterial culture, or histopathology). Animals for post mortem examination must be packaged and labelled appropriately, and accompanied by a completed submission form. Contact the laboratory to ensure the correct samples are collected, and further testing is performed as requested. Please contact Customer Service to discuss a diagnostic plan. D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	According to demand

Specimen requirements

Aborted foetus

Whole foetus and foetal membrane
- Submit chilled in an insulated container

Blood (without anti-coagulant)

10 ml of blood from aborting animals into an EDTA tube
- Submit chilled

Fresh tissue

Placenta, liver, adrenal gland, heart, lung, kidney, brain, spleen and stomach contents
- Submit chilled
Pericardial, thoracic or peritoneal fluid and heart blood from foetus
- Submit chilled

Abortion in pigs

Description

Common causes of abortion in swine in New South Wales include leptospirosis, streptococcal infections and toxaemic conditions in the sow. Other possible causes include genetic factors, oestrogenic feeds, bacteria diseases (Erysipelas), viruses (encephalomyocarditis (EMC) virus, porcine parvovirus, porcine circovirus (PCV2), Bungowannah virus) and vitamin A deficiency.

Abortion should be differentiated from parturient and immediate post parturient deaths due to hypoxia and managerial factors such as injury or stress, smothering, high or low ambient temperatures. Parvovirus infection causes foetal mummification and parturient deaths; it does not normally cause abortion.

Detection of immunoglobulins in foetal fluids after 70 days of gestation may indicate abortion due to infectious agent.

Diagnosis and tests available

Diagnosis

For the best diagnostic outcome, please discuss a diagnostic plan with the duty pathologist.

Tests available

Click on + in the tables below for sampling requirements and additional test information

Code	Name	Samples required	Species	Turnaround time	Price (excl. GST)	Notes	Test days
AER_CLT	Aerobic routine culture	Tissue, PM sample, swab	All species	3-5D	$55.20	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
AER_CLT_ID	Aerobic bacterial Identification	From culture	All species	Up to 7D	$17.15	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
SEN_N_GEN	Antibiotic Sensitivity - Gram Negative Organisms - General	From culture	All species	3D	$24.45	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
SEN_P_GEN	Antibiotic Sensitivity - Gram Positive Organisms - General	From culture	All species	3D	$24.45	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
BUNG_PCR	Bungowannah Virus Real–time PCR	Clotted blood (Red top) Fresh tissue Semen	Porcine	3-5D	$109.35	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
EMC_VN	Encephalomyocarditis Virus Neutralisation test (VNT)	Clotted blood (Red top) 10 ml of blood from the dam of affected litters Collected into a plain red top tube Submit chilled	Porcine, other susceptible species	1-3W	$55.15	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Batch tested weekly according to demand
EMC_RTPCR	Encephalomyocarditis Virus Real Time PCR*	Fresh tissue Fresh heart, brain, lung and spleen tissue collected separately and aseptically from a recently deceased animal Submit chilled	Porcine, other susceptible species	2-3D	$109.35	* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation. D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	According to demand
ERYSIP_CLT	Erysipelothrix sp. – Selective culture	Swab Swab from affected joint synovium, collected aseptically Send without transport medium Submit chilled Fresh tissue or PM sample Whole affected joint, sections of skin, endocardium, liver, kidney, lung and spleen. Submit chilled.	Ovine, Porcine	7D	$82.10	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays. ²Prior approval of delivery and testing on Saturday is required. Please contact Customer Service on 1800 675 623 to seek approval.	Monday – Saturday²
HIST_HE1	Histopathology – Preparation & Examination	Fixed Tissues- General Fresh tissues immediately placed in formalin Tissue pieces should not be greater than 1cm cubed to ensure proper fixation Submit fixed in neutral buffered formalin at a 10:1 ratio of formalin: tissue Fixed Tissues- Nervous tissues Submission of whole brain is required to ensure preservation of TSE target sites submit fixed in neutral buffered formalin at a ratio of 10:1 formalin: tissue Brains submitted for Nervous tissues are processed once a week, separate to general tissues to ensure consistent and reliable results. Urgent cases can be processed out of cycle if clearly marked on the Submission Form however this may reduce the quality of the brain histology results, so should only be requested in extremely urgent cases. Fresh Tissues Fresh tissues can be submitted following necropsy The quality of the tissues will be reduced due to the effects of autolysis so ideally fixed tissue should be submitted in neutral buffered formalin at a ratio of 10:1 formalin: tissue	All species	Up to 10D	$84.95	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Monday - Friday
Various	Histopathology – Special Stain	On Request	All species	Up to 5D	$54.20	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays. A variety of special stains are maintained and can be performed on request. Refer to our Histology Special Stain Page for further information.	Monday - Friday
L_POM_MA	Leptospira Pomona MAT	Clotted blood (Red top) 10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube Submit chilled Aborted foetus Whole aborted foetus with membranes Submit chilled	Bovine, Caprine, Equine, Porcine, Ovine	Up to 5D	POA- Outsourced Currently	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Wednesday and Thursday
L_TAR_MA	Leptospira Tarassovi MAT	Clotted blood (Red top) 10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube Submit chilled Aborted foetus Whole aborted foetus with membranes Submit chilled	Bovine, Equine, Porcine	Up to 5D	POA- Outsourced Currently	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Wednesday and Thursday
PCV2_RTPCR	Porcine Circovirus Type 2 (PCV2) Real–time PCR	Clotted blood (Red top) Fresh tissue	Porcine	2-5D	$109.35	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
PPV_RT_PCR	Porcine Parvovirus Real–time PCR*	Fresh tissue	Porcine	2-3D	$109.35	* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation. D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
S_SUIS_PCR	Streptococcus suis PCR*	Culture, tissue, swab	Porcine	5D	$109.35	* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation. D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
PM_FPIG	Post Mortem Large Animal- Pig Foetus	Whole Animal Animals must be recently euthanised or freshly dead. Submit chilled in an insulated container. Freezing animals for post mortem is not recommended, as it interferes with diagnostic testing (e.g. bacterial culture and histology). Animals may be frozen if the interval between euthanasia and post mortem will be greater than 24 hours, however further diagnostic testing will be limited.	Porcine	Necropsy reports are issued up to 14D after completion of necropsy.	$41.05	1 pig foetus Final selection of the appropriate post mortem type is at the discretion of the pathologist performing the necropsy. Post mortem charges do not include additional diagnostic testing (e.g. bacterial culture, or histopathology). Animals for post mortem examination must be packaged and labelled appropriately, and accompanied by a completed submission form. Contact the laboratory to ensure the correct samples are collected, and further testing is performed as requested. Please contact Customer Service to discuss a diagnostic plan. D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	According to demand

Specimen requirements

Aborted foetus

Whole foetus and foetal membrane
- Submit chilled in an insulated container

Blood (with anti-coagulant)

10 ml of blood from aborting animals collected into a plain red top tube
- Submit chilled

Blood (without anti-coagulant)

10 ml of blood from aborting animals collected into an EDTA tube
- Submit chilled

Fresh tissue

Placenta, liver, heart, lung, kidney, brain, spleen, pericardial/pleural fluid and stomach contents
- Submit chilled

Abortion in sheep and goats

Description

Common causes in New South Wales include toxoplasmosis, campylobacteriosis, listeriosis , brucellosis, Border disease, Akabane virus and pasteurellosis. Other causes include chlamydiosis and conditions causing clinical illness in the ewe or doe, e.g. salmonellosis, hypocalcaemia, pregnancy toxaemia, septicaemia. Habitual abortion can occur in Angora does.

Diagnosis and tests available

Diagnosis

For the best diagnostic outcome, please discuss a diagnostic plan with the duty pathologist.

Tests available

Click on + in the tables below for sampling requirements and additional test information

Code	Name	Samples required	Species	Turnaround time	Price (excl. GST)	Notes	Test days
AER_CLT	Aerobic routine culture	Tissue, PM sample, swab	All species	3-5D	$55.20	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
AER_CLT_ID	Aerobic bacterial Identification	From culture	All species	Up to 7D	$17.15	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
AKA_ABEL	Akabane Virus Antibody ELISA	Clotted blood (Red top tube) 10 ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) from the dam or neonate that has not suckled collected in a plain red top tube. Submit chilled Foetal fluid 2 mL pericardial, pleural or peritoneal (in order of preference) submitted chilled Test for IgG initially (cattle only) and if levels are elevated test for Akabane virus antibodies if appropriate Please note on the submission form if colostrum was given to a neonate	Bovine, Ovine, Caprine	Up to 7D	$15.55	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Batch tested weekly. Contact Customer Service to confirm the day of test set-up.
AKA_VN	Akabane VNT	Clotted blood (Red top tube) 10 ml of blood collected in a plain red top tube.	Bovine, Ovine, Caprine	1-2W	$55.15	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays. This test is predominantly used for regulatory testing	Batch tested on Thursday
SEN_N_GEN	Antibiotic Sensitivity - Gram Negative Organisms - General	From culture	All species	3D	$24.45	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
SEN_P_GEN	Antibiotic Sensitivity - Gram Positive Organisms - General	From culture	All species	3D	$24.45	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.
BR_OVI_ABE	Brucella ovis Ab ELISA (Tier A: 1-9 samples) *	Clotted blood (Red top)/Serum (Red top) At least 2 ml of serum collected in a plain red top tube. Submit chilled. Lith Hep blood (Green top tube) At least 2 ml of serum collected in a green top tube. Submit chilled.	Ovine	Up to 7D	$14.35	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Monday - Friday
BR_OVI_ABE	Brucella ovis Ab ELISA (Tier B: 10-49 samples) *	Clotted blood (Red top)/Serum (Red top) At least 2 ml of serum collected in a plain red top tube. Submit chilled. Lith Hep blood (Green top tube) At least 2 ml of serum collected in a green top tube. Submit chilled.	Ovine	Up to 7D	$13.45	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Monday - Friday
BR_OVI_ABE	Brucella ovis Ab ELISA (Tier C: 50+ samples) *	Clotted blood (Red top)/Serum (Red top) At least 2 ml of serum collected in a plain red top tube. Submit chilled. Lith Hep blood (Green top tube) At least 2 ml of serum collected in a green top tube. Submit chilled.	Ovine	Up to 7D	$12.80	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Monday - Friday
B_OVIS_PCR	Brucella ovis PCR	Culture Fresh tissues Testes, epididymis and accessory sex glands, including ampullae and seminal vesicles. Submit chilled. Swabs	Ovine	5D	$109.35	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Monday – Friday
B_OVIS_CLT	Brucella ovis – Selective culture	Fresh tissue Testes, epididymis and accessory sex glands, including ampullae and seminal vesicles. Submit chilled. Semen Swab	Ovine	7D	$82.10	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Monday – Saturday² ²Prior approval of delivery and testing on Saturday is required. Please contact Customer Service on 1800 675 623 to seek approval.
CHLAMO_MLT	Chlamydia abortion multiplex - Ovine PCR panel (Includes C.abortus, C.genus, and C.pecorum)*	Placenta, Abomasal fluid Placenta and stomach contents collected from post mortem Submit chilled	Ovine	5D	$137.80	* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation. D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	As required
HIST_HE1	Histopathology – Preparation & Examination	Fixed Tissues- General Fresh tissues immediately placed in formalin Tissue pieces should not be greater than 1cm cubed to ensure proper fixation Submit fixed in neutral buffered formalin at a 10:1 ratio of formalin: tissue Fixed Tissues- Nervous tissues Submission of whole brain is required to ensure preservation of TSE target sites submit fixed in neutral buffered formalin at a ratio of 10:1 formalin: tissue Brains submitted for Nervous tissues are processed once a week, separate to general tissues to ensure consistent and reliable results. Urgent cases can be processed out of cycle if clearly marked on the Submission Form however this may reduce the quality of the brain histology results, so should only be requested in extremely urgent cases. Fresh Tissues Fresh tissues can be submitted following necropsy The quality of the tissues will be reduced due to the effects of autolysis so ideally fixed tissue should be submitted in neutral buffered formalin at a ratio of 10:1 formalin: tissue	All species	Up to 10D	$84.95	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Monday - Friday
Various	Histopathology – Special Stain	On Request	All species	Up to 5D	$54.20	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays. A variety of special stains are maintained and can be performed on request. Refer to our Histology Special Stain Page for further information.	Monday - Friday
L_GRI_MA	Leptospira Grippotyphosa MAT	Clotted blood (Red top) 10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube Submit chilled Aborted foetus Whole aborted foetus with membranes Submit chilled	Bovine, Canine, Caprine, Feline	Up to 5D	POA- Outsourced Currently	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Wednesday and Thursday
L_HAR_MA	Leptospira Hardjo MAT	Clotted blood (Red top) 10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube Submit chilled Aborted foetus Whole aborted foetus with membranes Submit chilled	Bovine, Ovine	Up to 5D	POA- Outsourced Currently	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Wednesday and Thursday
L_ICT_MA	Leptospira Icterohaemorrhagiae MAT	Clotted blood (Red top) 10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube Submit chilled Aborted foetus Whole aborted foetus with membranes Submit chilled	Canine, Caprine	Up to 5D	POA- Outsourced Currently	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Wednesday and Thursday
L_POM_MA	Leptospira Pomona MAT	Clotted blood (Red top) 10ml of blood (including at least 2 ml of serum) collected into a plain red top tube Submit chilled Aborted foetus Whole aborted foetus with membranes Submit chilled	Bovine, Caprine, Equine, Porcine, Ovine	Up to 5D	POA- Outsourced Currently	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Wednesday and Thursday
LIST_CULT	Listeria sp. - Selective culture	Fresh tissue Fresh brain, liver, spleen, and kidney Collect aseptically. Submit chilled. Fluid Cerebrospinal fluid collected aseptically from neurologically affected animals. Submit chilled. Aborted foetus Whole foetus and membranes Submit chilled.	All species	7D	$82.10	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Monday – Saturday Note: Prior approval of delivery and testing on Saturday is required. Please contact Customer Service on 1800 675 623 to seek approval.
SALM_CLT	Salmonella – Selective culture	Fresh tissue Portions of liver, kidney, lung, bile, spleen, mesenteric lymph nodes and small intestinal contents collected from dead animals. Submit chilled. Faeces Faecal samples can be submitted from live animals. Submit chilled. MINIMUM of 20 grams required per animal (ruminants) for export of health testing. Environmental samples	All species	3-7D¹	$82.10	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays. ¹4 - 7 working days for export, health testing or environmental samples	Monday to Saturday¹
TOX_ABE_ID	Toxoplasma gondii Indirect ELISA*	Clotted Blood/Serum (Red top) 10 ml of blood (including at least 2ml of serum) from aborting animals and 5-10 in-contact animals. Submit chilled. Collected into a plain red top tube. Clearly document on the specimen submission form of each animal samples and clearly identify which animal aborted.	Caprine, Ovine, Companion	Up to 5D	$16.60	* Denotes analyses not covered by the NATA scope of accreditation. D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Monday- Friday
AKA_PCR	Akabane Virus Real–time PCR	Clotted blood (Red top tube) 10 ml of blood collected in a red top tube DO NOT use a serum separator tube Submit chilled EDTA (Purple top tube) 10ml EDTA blood collected in a purple top tube Submit chilled Fresh tissue Fresh brain submitted from the aborted foetus Submit chilled Semen Semen straws or raw semen Please contact Customer Service prior to submission. For regulatory testing samples must be shipped at specified temperatures)	Bovine, Ovine	2-3D	$109.35	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	According to demand
PEST_AGID	Pestivirus (BDV) antibody AGID	Clotted blood (red top tube) Collect 10 ml of blood into a plain red top tube submitted chilled Do not use serum separator tubes. Foetal fluid Pericardial, pleural or peritoneal (in order of preference). Please note on the submission form if colostrum was given to a neonate Submit chilled	Ovine	3-5D	$25.35	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Tuesday & Friday
PEST_SK_SE	Pestivirus (BDV) Antigen ELISA (PACE) – Serum (PRICE TIER A: 1–9 samples)	Clotted blood (red top tube) Collect 10 ml of blood into a plain red top tube (For animals >2 months) Do not use serum separator tubes. Submit chilled Fresh Tissue- Dead animals and foetuses Fresh lung, spleen and mesenteric lymph node - collect aseptically Whole lamb or foetus (and foetal membranes) Submit chilled in an insulated container Note: Unlike cattle, ear notches from sheep and goats are not a suitable sample for this test	Ovine and Caprine	5-7D	$20.05	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Batch tested 2-3 times weekly
PEST_SK_SE	Pestivirus (BDV) Antigen ELISA (PACE) – Serum (PRICE TIER B: 10–19 samples)	Clotted blood (red top tube) Collect 10 ml of blood into a plain red top tube (For animals >2 months) Do not use serum separator tubes. Submit chilled Fresh Tissue- Dead animals and foetuses Fresh lung, spleen and mesenteric lymph node - collect aseptically Whole lamb or foetus (and foetal membranes) Submit chilled in an insulated container Note: Unlike cattle, ear notches from sheep and goats are not a suitable sample for this test	Ovine and Caprine	5-7D	$14.75	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Batch tested 2-3 times weekly
PEST_SK_SE	Pestivirus (BDV) Antigen ELISA (PACE) – Serum (PRICE TIER C: >20 samples)	Clotted blood (red top tube) Collect 10 ml of blood into a plain red top tube (For animals >2 months) Do not use serum separator tubes. Submit chilled Fresh Tissue- Dead animals and foetuses Fresh lung, spleen and mesenteric lymph node - collect aseptically Whole lamb or foetus (and foetal membranes) Submit chilled in an insulated container Note: Unlike cattle, ear notches from sheep and goats are not a suitable sample for this test	Ovine and Caprine	5-7D	$12.60	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	Batch tested 2-3 times weekly
BDV_RTPCR	Pestivirus (BDV) PCR	Clotted Blood (Red top) 10 ml of Clotted blood collected into a plain red top tube Do not use serum separator tubes. Submit chilled EDTA blood (Purple top) 10 ml of blood collected into an EDTA purple tube Submitted chilled Semen Semen straws or raw semen (please contact Customer Service prior to submission. For regulatory testing samples must be shipped at specified temperatures. Fresh Tissue- Dead animals and foetuses Spleen, lung or mesenteric lymph node. Whole lamb or foetus (and foetal membranes) Submit chilled in an insulated container	Ovine	2-3D	$109.35	D (number of working days) and W (number of weeks). Test TAT does not include weekends and public holidays.	According to demand

Specimen requirements

Aborted foetus

Whole foetus and foetal membrane
- Submit chilled in an insulated container

Blood (with anti-coagulant)

10 ml of blood from aborting animals and unsuckled neonates
- Collected in plain red top tube
- Submit chilled
- Clearly document each animal and identify which animal aborted on the specimen advice form

Blood (without anti-coagulant)

10 ml of blood from aborting animals, unsuckled neonates and from five to ten in-contact animals
- Collected in plain red top tube
- Submit chilled
- Clearly document each animal and identify which animal aborted on the specimen advice form

Foetal fluids

Fresh foetal stomach contents
- Submit chilled
Pericardial or pleural fluid from foetus or unsuckled lamb/kid
- Submit chilled

Fresh tissue

Fresh placenta, liver, heart, lung, kidney, brain, spleen
- Submit chilled

Additional Information

Customer Service

Contact Customer Service for enquiries relating to testing and results, quotations and pricing, couriers, sample submission and invoicing.

NSW DPIRD's laboratories are committed to continual improvement of services. If you would like to provide feedback, please fill in and submit the online feedback form.

CONTACT DETAILS
Phone	1800 675 623
Email	laboratory.services@dpird.nsw.gov.au
Operating Hours	8:30am-4:30pm Monday-Friday (excluding public holidays) 8:30am-12:00pm Saturday (for deliveries only)
Postal Address	Private Bag 4008, Narellan NSW 2567

Quotations

For Animal export, Plant health or Veterinary quotations, please complete the online quotation request

Submission Forms

Veterinary Specimen Advice Form

Please Note: These documents are not fully web accessible, please contact Customer Service (laboratory.services@dpird.nsw.gov.au) for more information.

Courier services and specimen delivery

For NSW submissions, please contact the relevant Customer Service team for courier account details and to order consignment notes.

For submitters outside of NSW, Couriers can be contacted directly to make bookings and arrange collection of packages at the submitters own cost.

Commercial couriers may use either road or air transport and specimens should therefore be packed in accordance with International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements. Most submission sent by veterinarians to the APHL for testing are defined as “Biological Substance Category B” and must be packed according to the IATA packing instructions 650 (Biological Substance Category B). As requirements for transport can change, customers should consult with their transport agent to obtain current requirements.

Samples may also be hand delivered to the site during normal business hours (8.30am - 4.30pm).

Sample Type	Laboratory	Street Address
Animal (including aquatic animals)	NSW Animal and Plant Health Laboratories (APHL)	EMAI, Woodbridge Road, Menangle NSW 2568

Abortion investigation

Abortion in cattle

Description

Diagnosis and tests available

Diagnosis

Tests available

Specimen requirements

Aborted foetus

Blood (with anti-coagulant)

Blood (without anti-coagulant)

Foetal fluid

Fresh tissue

Milk

Swab

Abortion in horses

Description

Diagnosis and tests available

Diagnosis

Tests available

Equine Herpes Abortion Investigation:

Equine Rhinopneumonitis Respiratory/Neurological Investigation:

Horse Export Testing

Specimen requirements

Aborted foetus

Blood (without anti-coagulant)

Fresh tissue

Abortion in pigs

Description

Diagnosis and tests available

Diagnosis

Tests available

Specimen requirements

Aborted foetus

Blood (with anti-coagulant)

Blood (without anti-coagulant)

Fresh tissue

Abortion in sheep and goats

Description

Diagnosis and tests available

Diagnosis

Tests available

Specimen requirements

Aborted foetus

Blood (with anti-coagulant)

Blood (without anti-coagulant)

Foetal fluids

Fresh tissue

Additional Information

Customer Service

Quotations

Submission Forms

Courier services and specimen delivery