Diagnostic tests are essential tools for confirming the health status of animals and identifying pathogens. They enable the early detection, management and control of animal diseases including zoonosis, it is important to take into account several basic aspects of the sampling for the laboratory analysis in order to avoid mistakes in this stage which could lead to false conclusions drawn from the interpretation of results:

1.     Choosing the correct and relevant material when carrying out the sampling.

2.     Two samples collected in clean/sterile conditions depending on the case.

3.     The samples taken should be transported to the laboratory in ice box for the detection of the antigen.

4.     The serum samples must be collected for the detection of antibodies (serology).

5.     it is very important to label the samples correctly.

 A detailed case report should be included with the samples

1.     Owner's name – farm name

2.     Horse ID.

3.     Owner’s complains and clinical signs

4.     Gross findings and lesions (including size and anatomic location).

5.     previous treatment, including response to treatment (if any) results of relevant diagnostic testing, such as CBC, serum biochemical analysis, cytologic and histologic evaluation, and imaging studies

6.     Previous vaccination program

7.     Feeding program

The most common equine samples are:

1-     Blood sample.

2-     Nasopharyngeal swab.   

3-     Tracheal Washes.

4-     Uterine swab in mares.

5-     Fecal sample.

6-     Skin scrapings.

7-     Peritoneal fluid (Abdominocentesis).

8-     Synovial Fluid (Arthrocentesis).

9-     Cerebrospinal fluid sampling technique.

10- Samples from fetus.