Related Experiment Videos
Ancillary tests for assessment of the ruminant digestive system
J K House1, B P Smith, D C VanMetre
1Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California, School of Veterinary Medicine, Davis.
Abstract:
This article reviews the ancillary tests that are available to evaluate disease and function of the gastrointestinal system. Procedures and tests such as abdominocentesis and peritoneal fluid cytology; rumen fluid analysis; abomasal pH and pepsinogen; upper digestive tract endoscopy; ultrasonography and radiology; hematologic and biochemical assessments; cytology, culture, and histopathology of aspirates; serology, liver function tests and biopsy; exploratory laparotomy; fecal examination; and microbiology are described.