Parasitology
The Parasitology Laboratory of the UCDVH is staffed by two board-certified Veterinary Parasitologists (European College of Veterinary Pathologists [ECVP]) and highly experienced, qualified technical staff. It provides a full parasite diagnostic-service capable of diagnosing parasites from domestic and wild animal faeces or tissue samples. Specialist advice on animal parasitic diseases is given to the agricultural industry and veterinary profession.
Parasite Control
Despite the availability of effective drugs, parasites still remain an important health issue for both domestic farm animals and pets. In fact, the common and often indiscriminate use of anthelmintics has led to the development of anthelmintic resistance, which has become a significant problem in all farm animals. The old approach of repeated blanket treatment to control parasites is no longer sustainable. Changing weather patterns, combined with different housing and grazing systems used in Irish farms, necessitate a more tailored parasite control programme. This would involve regular monitoring of parasite exposure in conjunction with a more strategic treatment approach.
Further information on parasite control can be found on the following websites:
Services Available
The routine parasitology diagnostic tests available include:
- Qualitative and quantitative (McMaster) centrifugation flotation techniques for nematode eggs and protozoal (oo)cysts
- Baermann technique for recovery of lungworm larvae
- Sedimentation technique for recovery of trematode eggs
- Examination of skin scraping for the identification of external parasites
More specialized services are also available, such as:
- Parasite identification
- Nematode larval cultures
- Antibody detection in serum for Neospora caninum (indirect fluorescent antibody test), Toxoplasma gondii (latex agglutination test) and Angiostrongylus vasorum (IDEXX AngioDetect)
- Detection of antigens in faecal samples for Giardia and Entamoeba histolytica
- Equine Occult Blood
- Faecal egg count reduction tests for the detection of anthelmintic resistance
- 4Dx Tickborn pathogens: Heartworm (Dirofilaria), Lyme, Enrilichia canis/ewingii, anaplasma phagocytophilum/platys
Further information on available tests and sample submission can be found in the UCD Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory 2023 Catalogue
Contact the Parasitology Laboratory:
Telephone: (01) 716 6168
Email: ucdvetlab@ucd.ie