The Analytical Chemistry Services (ACS) Section of the Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (ISU-VDL) is a full service analytical laboratory. The ACS laboratory provides testing on a variety of analytical platforms including; LC-MS, GC-MS, HPLC, ICP-MS, and ICP-OES. The laboratory performs analytical testing for a variety diagnostic cases and research projects. Services for nutritional monitoring of minerals and selected vitamins through analysis of feeds, serum, and tissue are available. Water quality analysis is also available.
Analyses performed by ACS are high throughput and developed to quantify exogenous and endogenous compounds in a variety of biological matrices. ACS is developing innovative analytical methods that will provide rapid analytical support for field veterinarians and livestock producers aimed at improving the health and welfare of livestock and companion animals. ACS is focused on offering a professional service characterized by accurate analysis of diagnostic and research samples with a commitment to a short turnaround time.
A Diplomat of the American Board of Veterinary Toxicology is the section leader of the Analytical Chemistry Services section of the ISU-VDL. Our toxicologist is available to provide consultation, suggestions, and interpretation regarding suspected toxicoses. This consultation includes information about specific samples or specimens useful in confirming diagnoses suspected by the attending clinician. To best accomplish this a thorough interchange of information between the clinician and toxicologist is important. The current practice of diagnostic toxicology requires that specific analyses or chemical screens be selected. A detailed history from the attending veterinarian is crucial to optimize testing for suspected agents. A complete account of history including management, feed type, and clinical signs should be submitted with specimens for laboratory evaluation. This information is very important for test selection and interpretation of results. Please see the Comments section in the Diagnostic Tests table for Analytical Chemistry Services for a complete list of testing capabilities and sampling details.