Leptospira Panel – 8 Serovars (MAT) – Equine
The Leptospira Panel – 8 Serovars is a comprehensive diagnostic test that utilizes the quantitative microscopic agglutination test (MAT) to detect antibodies against eight significant Leptospira serovars: pomona, icterohaemorrhagiae, canicola, grippotyphosa, hardjo, bratislava, autumnalis, and sejroe. This test is essential for diagnosing leptospirosis in horses, a zoonotic bacterial disease that can cause symptoms such as fever, jaundice, lethargy, uveitis (moon blindness), abortion, and kidney or liver dysfunction. Horses contract leptospirosis primarily through contact with contaminated water, soil, or urine from infected animals. The MAT is widely regarded as the gold standard for serological diagnosis of leptospirosis, providing highly specific identification of the serovars involved. This panel is particularly useful for diagnosing acute and chronic infections, monitoring exposure in endemic areas, and conducting outbreak investigations. Early and accurate detection through this test allows veterinarians to administer appropriate treatments, such as antibiotics, and implement control measures to mitigate further spread and environmental risks.
Test name
Leptospira Panel – 8 Serovars (MAT – Equine
Test Code
E141
Section
Immunodiagnostics
Species
Equine
Specimen
2 ml Serum
Collection Guidelines
- Collect an adequate amount of blood in a plain red-top tube or serum separator tube (yellow-top tube). Allow it to clot at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes before separation.
- Centrifuge to separate the serum. Transfer the clear serum into a new, leak-proof plain red-top tube and label it as “serum.”
- Excessively hemolyzed samples are not suitable for this test.
- Unspun samples will not be accepted.
- Refrigerate sample at 4oC until shipment.
Turnaround time
14-21 days
Packing Instructions
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.
References
- Divers, T.J., et al. “Diagnostic Advances in Equine Leptospirosis: The Role of MAT in Serovar Identification.” Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2021.
- Schuller, S., et al. “Applications of Serovar-Specific MAT Testing for Equine Leptospirosis.” Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice, 2022.
- Timoney, J.F., et al. “Comprehensive Diagnostics for Leptospira in Equines: Serovars and Clinical Relevance.” Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation, 2023.
