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Laboratory Haematology

Our in-house laboratory offers a comprehensive range of haematology and clinical chemistry testing

It is subject to a stringent internal quality control policy and provides high quality analysis with results that are reliable and can be trusted.

The diagnostic services we provide in the lab are backed up by our team of experienced equine vets. The suggestions and advice we offer are specific to each case following careful consideration of the results.

Analysis of blood samples can be helpful in supporting a diagnosis of anaemia, dehydration and bacterial or viral infections.

BIOCHEMISTRY
We offer a comprehensive range of biochemical and electrolyte tests which can help to diagnose a wide range of medical diseases such as infections, muscle diseases, liver disease, kidney disease, intestinal disease and metabolic abnormalities.

DERMATOLOGY
Skin scrapings and hair plucks are examined microscopically for the presence of abnormalities and external parasites.
They can also be subjected to microbiological and fungal culture that can help in the diagnosis of bacterial skin infections and the fungal disease ringworm.

ENDOCRINOLOGY
Analysis of blood samples can be carried out to investigate the following:
– Equine Metabolic Syndrome
– Cushing’s Syndrome sometimes referred to as Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction
– Pregnancy diagnosis

FAECAL ANALYSIS
This can be a useful diagnostic test in the investigation of weight loss, recurrent colic and diarrhoea in both the adult horse and foal. Faecal samples can be analysed for:
– Worm eggs
– Worm larvae
– Bacteria and/or the toxins they release
– Blood
– Sand

MICROBIOLOGY
We can culture samples under aerobic conditions and also submit samples for culture under microaerophillic and/or anaerobic conditions.
A full range of antibiotic sensitivity testing is performed on significant isolates.

CYTOLOGY AND CELL COUNTS
Cytology is a valuable diagnostic technique for the investigation of the abnormal cells present in samples taken from lesions, the airways, chest and abdominal cavities, joints etc.

URINE SAMPLE ANALYSIS
Urine sample analysis can be used as part of an investigation of recurrent colic, disorders of the urinary tract, weight loss and other complaints.