In this laboratory, specimens consisting of animal tissues, blood, plants, baits, fertilizer, etc., are examined for poisons. Some examples of frequently diagnosed poisonings are arsenic, lead, insecticides, prussic acid, nitrate, antifreeze, blister beetle, warfarin, oil field drilling related chemicals, copper, aflatoxin, moldy corn, gossypol, nitrates, urea, strychnine, etc. Rumen or stomach content of animals can be examined under the microscope for specific plant parts which helps identify poisonous plants. Also, antibiotics are tested to see if they are effective against the disease causing bacteria that are recovered. In the serology laboratory, serum is tested to detect antibodies that are formed against specific disease-producing microbial organisms.
Antibody tests are helpful in measuring the incidence or spread of a disease.
Serological tests are also used to certify animals for international or interstate shipments. This laboratory determines the levels of various hormones in the blood. This information can be used to determine the cause of infertility and to confirm pregnancy. This allows the epidemiologist to better study the transmission, incidence and ultimately the prevention or control of diseases. By serving as a focal point for disease specimens from across the state, epidemics can be detected that would otherwise go unnoticed.