[Reliability of the glutaraldehyde test to measure gamma-globulin levels in foals and the use of this test to check colostrum intake of foals].

This research investigated the reliability of the glutaraldehyde coagulation test as a measure of gamma-globulin levels in foals and its efficiency in assessing their colostrum intake. The researchers concluded that the test is suitable for use in the field with good sensitivity, specificity and predictive value.

Objective of the Study

• The study aimed to assess the reliability of the glutaraldehyde coagulation test, a semi-quantitative test used to determine the gamma-globulin concentration in serum, in foals.
• The research also explored the efficiency of this test in determining colostrum intake and prevalence of hypogammaglobulinemia in foals.
• The reliability of the test was assessed by determining its sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value.

Methodology

• Various modifications of the glutaraldehyde coagulation test were evaluated.
• The results from the glutaraldehyde coagulation test were compared with the serum gamma-globulin concentration, which was taken as a reference value.
• The reference value was determined by measuring total serum protein and the serum protein spectrum.

Results

• The study concluded that the glutaraldehyde coagulation test is a suitable and reliable method to determine the serum gamma-globulin concentration in foals, making it an effective field test.
• The test showed good sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value.
• The best results were achieved when a 5% glutaraldehyde solution was used and results were evaluated at specific times relative to certain serum concentrations. Specifically, results should be evaluated at 30 minutes for a serum concentration of 8 g/l and at 50 minutes for a serum concentration of 5.5 g/l.
• A serum concentration below 5.5 g/l indicates the need for therapy.