Bovine chronic ill thrift/weight loss diagnostic panel work-up

Common differential list:
• Bacteria: Salmonella spp., Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (Johne’s disease)
• Parasites: Eimeria spp., GI nematodes
• Neoplastic: Bovine leukosis virus (BLV)
• Nutritional

Samples to submit (fresh and fixed)
• Small intestines: duodenum, jejunum, ileum (2-3 segments/each)
• Cecum
• Colon
• Abomasum, rumen, ruminal contents
• Kidney
• Liver
• Spleen
• Mesenteric lymph node
• Lung
• Adrenal gland
• Bone marrow from diaphysis (or femur)
• Heart
• Uterus (if female)
• Any additional gross lesions

Standard tests run at the laboratory (included in the general investigation)
• Histopathology
• Enteric culture
• Fecal flotation

Additional tests (check website for preferred samples and current prices)
• Johne’s PCR
• Trace mineral analysis
• Bone marrow fat percentage

Printable version available here.

Updated 01/10/2025