Laboratory Diagnostics

Diagnostics and Bloodwork 

Doctor giving horse an injection

Blood tests are an essential part of diagnosing equine diseases, just as they are in human medicine. Blood tests can help identify conditions such as anemia, infections and inflammation and many specific diseases. Certain tests can be run in-house whilst others are sent to the Animal Health Diagnostic Center at Cornell University or Idexx reference laboratory for more complex tests.

Common Blood Tests Used by Veterinarians

Yearly Wellness Panel

The Equine Wellness Panel includes: Equine Infectious Anemia testing (Coggins Test), Fecal flotation, Hemogram, Chemistry Panel, Selenium, Serum Amyloid A and Vitamin E. The testing is done at Cornell.

Red Blood Cell Count

Red blood cells are used to determine a number of factors. The packed red blood cell count can detect a condition called polycythemia. A high count indicates dehydration, while a low count can be an indicator of anemia. 

The hemoglobin concentration test measures the oxygen-carrying capacity of your horse’s blood, and the red blood cell count can tell your vet how well your horse’s body is functioning. 

White Blood Cell Count and Differential.

Testing the white blood cells is equally useful. A high white blood cell count may be indicative of infection, whereas a low white blood cell count may indicate a weakened immune system. The types of white blood cells (differential) are equally important.

Serum Amyloid A

SAA is a marker of inflammation and can be useful in monitoring the progression of certain infections and inflammatory conditions.

Lyme Disease and Anaplasmosis

Lyme disease and other tick borne diseases can be diagnosed by serology

Pre-Purchase Drug Screen

To test for pain killers, anti-inflammatory drugs and sedatives as part of a pre-purchase evaluation

Panel Testing for Specific Conditions

Respiratory Disease Panel: Adult horses or foals

Diarrhea Panel: Adult horses or Foals

Equine Metabolic Syndrome

Equine Cushings Disease

Fevers of Unknown Origin

Call us today at 845 986 2669 to learn more about the various lab tests that are available or to schedule an appointment.