The MSU VDL’s biopsy service uses surgical pathology, immunohistochemistry, and molecular diagnostics to provide veterinarians and veterinary oncologists the most accurate diagnosis and prognosis possible. After removing suspicious tissues and organs from animals, usually through a surgical process, veterinarians submit them to the MSU VDL for examination. Once at the laboratory, the tissues are examined, trimmed into smaller pieces, and processed to make microscopic slides.
Surgical Pathology is the discipline of examining tissue microscopically and/or with the naked eye to discern hallmarks of disease. A pathologist examines slides after they are made and a diagnosis is determined. The Surgical Pathology Laboratory will often subject tissues to further analysis to help define the disease process and aid in a diagnosis.
Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a diagnostic tool based on the detection of antigens and is primarily used for identification of specific infectious organisms, diagnosis of tumor entities, and prognostic evaluation of tumors. IHC has proven to be a highly specific and sensitive diagnostic method and is especially advantageous as a diagnostic tool for cancerous and infectious diseases.
Cancer Molecular Diagnostic Panels
The MSU VDL offers comprehensive cancer molecular diagnostic panels for the accurate diagnosis and prognostication for particular canine and feline neoplastic diseases. The following immunodiagnostic/molecular panels are currently offered:
- Canine Mast Cell Tumor Prognostic Panel
- Canine Melanoma Diagnostic and Prognostic Panels
- Feline Intestinal Lymphoma Panel that includes PARR testing
- Canine and Feline Lymphoma Panels that include PARR testing
- KIT Testing and PCR for c-Kit Mutations for tumors besides mast cell tumors
Other Specialized Services Available Include:
- Dermatopathology
- Electron Microscopy
- Genetic Testing
- Hepatopathology - Premium Liver Biopsy Panel offered
- In Situ Hybridization
- Ocular Pathology
- Pulmonary Pathology
- Reproductive Pathology
- Tumor Pathology
- Zoo/Exotic/Wildlife Pathology
For complete information about biopsy and immunohistochemistry tests, specimen requirements, or submittal procedures please see our catalog of available tests. Please call 517.353.1683 if you have any questions about MSU VDL tests.