Failure of passive transfer in calves: comparison of field diagnosis methods
Hopkins, F.M.; Dean, D.F.; Greene, W.
Modern Veterinary Practice 65(8): 625-628
1984
ISSN/ISBN: 0362-8140 PMID: 6436680 Document Number: 224501
Samples (made by diluting a known bovine serum sample) containing 36-3600 mg/dl immunoglobulins were tested by zinc sulphate turbidity (ZST), sodium sulphite precipitation (SST) and glutaraldehyde coagulation (GC). Both ZST and SSP correctly identified samples representing adequate antibody transfer (> 1600 mg/dl). All samples below 1600 mg/dl were negative for ZST. GC was positive for samples representing partial failure of passive transfer (800-1600 mg/dl). GC was the most useful for identifying complete failure of passive transfer (< 800 mg/dl). SSP, using 3 concentrations of sodium sulphite (14, 16 and 18%) was the most accurate test and is recommended as a field test.