Parasitology
Poulpharm is a leading lab within coccidiosis research. Throughout the years Poulpharm has built up exceptional expertise on coccidiosis and can count on specifically trained personnel for its implementation. Annually more than 7000 manure samples are brought in for microscopic research. Here we not only determine the total number of oocysts per gram of manure (OPG) but we also differentiate the different Eimeria species so that an OPG value is obtained per species. Our expertise is not limited to Eimeria species that occur in chickens but also in other animal species (rabbit, turkey, guinea fowl,…). Besides the classical OPG method Poulpharm also disposes of a molecular based method, namely by means of Real-time PCR, for the differentiation of the different Eimeria oocysts in chicken and turkey manure based on the genetic information (DNA).
Besides coccidiosis diagnostics Poulpharm is also specialized in diagnosing worm (Helminth) infections in different animal species. Here we use microscopy to determine the number of eggs per gram of manure (EPG). In addition, we can also detect the worms in intestinal tracts by means of the worm-sieve method.
Within the framework of the Histomonas research, Poulpharm performs besides microscopic research also Real-time PCR on different matrices (manure, organs, dust). Also the cultivation of Histomonas belongs to the possibilities.
Finally, Poulpharm also focuses on ectoparasitic research, with Dermanyssus gallinae or red bird mite as the most important economic ectoparasite. Here we offer mite counts to determine the infection pressure in the barn. In addition, we also carry out susceptibility testing in case of suspected resistance to commercially available pesticides. Hereby we can choose for both an in vivo and an in vitro screening assay.