Overview of Clinical Pathology and the Horse.

This research article provides extensive information and guidelines on equine clinical pathology, discussing algorithms for diagnosing anemia, changes in white blood cell count (leukogram) related to acute and chronic inflammation, and newer serum markers. It also recommends testing procedures for endocrine disorders in horses and emphasizes the significance of quality assurance in laboratory diagnosis.

Anemia Diagnosis in Horses

• The study provides algorithms and tables specifically designed to help in diagnosing anemia in horses. Such tools would help clinicians to understand which tests are most relevant under specific circumstances and offer guidance on interpreting the results.

Leukogram Alterations Associated with Inflammation

• The authors also shed light on leukogram alterations – changes in the number and types of white blood cells – that are related to both acute and chronic inflammation in horses. Understanding these alterations is important for the diagnosis and management of various inflammatory conditions in horses.

Fluid Evaluations

• There is a special focus on evaluations of fluid samples like joint fluid and effusions into body cavities. The researchers provide a reference table that offers insights into how to conduct these evaluations and interpret the results effectively.

Emerging Serum Markers

• The paper explores newer serum markers such as cardiac troponin, which can be helpful in the diagnosis and management of heart diseases in horses. It discusses how these advanced markers can be utilised in clinical pathology.

Endocrine Disease Evaluation

• The authors provide a table that highlights recommended test procedures for evaluating endocrine diseases in horses. This table would be useful for clinicians when dealing with suspected endocrine disorders.

Importance of Quality Assurance

• The paper emphasizes the importance of quality assurance in laboratory diagnosis of diseases. It encourages readers to take a keen interest in this critical aspect of laboratory practice by providing an overview of the basics of quality assurance in clinical pathology labs.