Frequently asked questions

The sample material for PCR depends on the pathogen to be detected and on the presence or absence of symptoms. Depending on the spread and distribution of the pathogen in the body as well as its shedding, different types of samples are suitable.

Pathogens that cause viremia, parasitemia or bacteremia can be detected directly in an EDTA blood sample at this stage of the infection. Lithium heparin as an anticoagulant is less suitable, since it can inhibit PCR. For blood samples, as well as for other fluids, a volume of at least 0.2 ml is required.

Unlike bacteriological/mycological examination, sterile swabs without transport medium are recommended for PCR tests. This is because if there is a low concentration of pathogens, samples sent with medium may yield false-negative results. Swabs can be moistened with physiological saline solution to collect the samples. The so-called cytobrushes (brush swabs), which can be sent in a sterile uncoated tube, are also suitable for PCR tests.

For the detection of pathogens in faeces, sample amounts of approximately the size of a hazelnut are required. For some pathogens (for example, coronavirus, Tritrichomonas foetus) we recommend collecting samples over 3 days, since these pathogens are shed intermittently in the faeces.

Other sample materials such as skin biopsies, organs, urine, synovial fluid, cerebrospinal fluid, bone marrow and lymph nodes are best sent in sterile sample containers without additives for PCR testing. Fixation solutions such as formalin or similar can lead to DNA degradation, PCR inhibition and therefore false-negative results.

• Attach one of the stickers we will have sent you to the bag containing the sample.
• Place the sample in the bag with the animal’s name.
• The bag must contain the sample of a single animal.

We take care of collecting the sample at the address you indicate. Once you have collected the sample, contact us so that we can come for it; the most effective way is by phone call.. The sample will arrive at our laboratory the day after the request.

It is not necessary to send the samples refrigerated. Until they are sent, they can be stored in the refrigerator at 2-8°C. Refrigerating and bringing the samples back to room temperature should be avoided as much as possible.

During sample collection the swab must be rubbed firmly against the oral mucosa (between the gum and the sides of the mouth), to ensure that enough cells adhere to the swab. A genetic test cannot be performed if sufficient genetic material is not collected

Samples must be sent to the laboratory as soon as possible, so it is important that they are sent on the same day they are taken.

To perform a PCR test, the animal’s DNA is always the basis. An EDTA blood sample (0.5 – 1 ml) is the most suitable for purifying the DNA, since there is a large amount of the animal’s cellular material.

The use of two mucosal swabs (or an e-swab) is also possible. To do this, a buccal swab must be performed, vigorously rubbing a sterile cotton swab inside the animal’s cheek. The swab must then be dried to prevent mould formation and sent in a tube without medium (without liquids or agar).

When using swabs, make sure the animal has not eaten for 1-2 hours beforehand and has not had contact with other animals to avoid possible contamination, as this could affect the test result.