Diagnostic methods for parasitic infections in livestock.
Parasitic infections are a primary cause of lost productivity in livestock world-wide. Accurate detection of parasites depends on many factors, including collection, storage, and transport of the sample, as well as the method of laboratory evaluation. However, the presence of a particular parasite does not always indicate the presence of parasitic disease. For many parasites, there exists a level at which the effect on production characteristics is balanced by the effect on the development of immunity. Interpretation of test results, therefore, should also consider such factors as the age of the animal or animals, clinical history, nutrition, local epidemiology of the parasites prevalent in the area, and any treatments that have been implemented.
Ballweber
Lora Rickard
LR
College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA. lora.ballweber@colostate.edu
D000818:Animals; D000829:Animals, Domestic / Q000469:parasitology*; D019411:Clinical Laboratory Techniques / Q000592:standards / Q000662:veterinary; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004478:Ectoparasitic Infestations / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000662:veterinary*; D005243:Feces / Q000469:parasitology*; D007411:Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000662:veterinary*; D010270:Parasite Egg Count / Q000662:veterinary; D010273:Parasitic Diseases, Animal / Q000097:blood / Q000175:diagnosis*; D010808:Physical Examination / Q000662:veterinary; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity