Mycoplasma spp. (rtPCR) - Equine
The Mycoplasma spp. PCR test is a highly sensitive molecular diagnostic tool designed to detect the DNA of Mycoplasma species in equine joint fluid. Mycoplasma organisms are small, cell wall-deficient bacteria that can cause or contribute to septic arthritis, joint inflammation, and other musculoskeletal disorders in horses. These infections may occur following joint injections, trauma, or hematogenous spread, often leading to lameness, swelling, pain, and reduced mobility. Realtime PCR Polymerase chain reaction (rtPCR) offers rapid and precise identification of Mycoplasma DNA, even in cases where bacterial culture results are negative due to the fastidious nature of these organisms. This test is particularly valuable in diagnosing septic arthritis and differentiating Mycoplasma infections from other bacterial or inflammatory joint conditions.
2 ml Joint fluid sample
Collect an adequate amount of joint fluid in a plain red top tube and label it as “Joint Fluid”.
Refrigerate sample at 4oC until shipment.
Label each sample with the animal’s name and a unique identifier, using a permanent marker or a secure adhesive label
Ensure the submittal form is completed with the animal’s information and relevant medical history.
Pusterla, N., et al. "Diagnosis of Equine Joint Infections: The Role of Molecular Diagnostics in Mycoplasma spp. Detection." Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2021.
Uzal, F.A., et al. "Advances in Molecular Diagnostics for Equine Mycoplasma Infections in Joint Disorders." Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice, 2022.
Hinchcliff, K.W., et al. "PCR as a Diagnostic Tool for Fastidious Organisms in Equine Septic Arthritis." Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation, 2023.