Survey of the large-animal diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine regarding knowledge and clinical use of polymerase chain reaction: implications for veterinary education.

The study surveys how well Veterinary Internal Medicine professionals understand and use Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology in their practice, specifically for large animals like horses. It was found that while many understood basic study principles, they lacked knowledge of more recent advancements in PCR. Despite this, many still use PCR regularly in detecting equine pathogens.

Survey Design and Results

• The study involved a custom questionnaire distributed to diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) who specialize in large animals. A copy of the survey was sent to 278 individuals, although only 93 respondents returned their completed forms, resulting in a response rate of 33.4%.
• The majority, 99%, were familiar with the principles of nucleic acid probe technology. However, only 57% knew the difference between traditional PCR and its more advanced version, real-time PCR.

Use of PCR in Veterinary Practice

• PCR technology is a major part of medical practice for large animals, with 92% of respondents stating that they regularly use either the conventional or real-time PCR for the discovery of equine pathogens.
• Most respondents (88%) submit samples like blood, nasal swabs, and animal feces to university/state veterinary labs for PCR analysis. These samples are used to detect a range of pathogens including Streptococcus equi, Lawsonia intracellularis, Neorickettsia risticii, equine herpesvirus 1/4, Rhodococcus equi, Sarcocystis neurona, and equine influenza virus.

Limitations and Recommendations

• Despite the general familiarity and usage of PCR, the respondents did identify some limiting factors to its application. These factors include expense associated with the diagnostic process and inconsistency of PCR outcomes, making them unreliable on occasion.
• Due to these limitations and general knowledge gaps, the majority of survey participants (88%) highlighted a need for ongoing education in molecular diagnostics. Such training should be part and parcel of veterinary curricula and regular continuing-education opportunities to better equip veterinarians with modern diagnostic tools like PCR.