The investigation of outbreaks of toxicologic disease

Use of this basic epidemiologic approach will solve many toxicologic problems. Epidemiologic techniques have a key role in integrating and assimilating the data derived from a toxicologic investigation. Hypotheses are proposed and tested based on the data obtained and analyzed. The systematic interview of owners or managers and the examination of the premises, healthy animals, and sick animals will ensure that quality data are obtained. Analysis of data by time, place, and attack rates of subpopulations and dietary components will suggest the most viable hypotheses. Occasionally, however, the investigation of toxicoses may require more sophisticated epidemiologic techniques and controlled studies.