Veterinary Pathologists use a light microscope to examine thin cross-sections of fish tissues mounted on glass slides. We search for abnormalities in the tissues – in terms of inflammatory cell infiltration, degeneration, cell size and shape, presence of pathogens, among other indicators. Check out some images on how useful a light microscope can be in disease diagnosis at this link – http://tinyurl.com/tfv-scope
It is the go-to test for when you don’t know what’s going on. It the least specific test that can give you indications of where to go next with testing. In fish, we routinely examine the gills, skin, muscle, liver, pancreas, fat, kidney, heart, spleen, brain and gut. For certain diseases, we include eyes, nares, spinal cord, and fins. Those working in toxicologic pathology would include testing for endocrine organs such as the pituitary, chromaffin tissue, corpuscles of Stannius, pancreatic islets, pineal, thyroid and more.
Pathology as it is practiced now can be rather subjective in some instances, and it takes years (>5-10 years) to become competent. The minimum standard for Veterinary Pathologists in NATA-accredited laboratories are those who have successfully completed their ANZCVS Membership examinations in Pathobiology. Those pathologists with specific field/clinical experience with the species, often have better insight into diseases.
At The Fish Vet, our team of fish veterinarians, pathologist and aquatic animal health specialists are either Certified Aquatic Veterinarians, and/or have their ANZCVS Memberships in Aquatic Animal Health, and/or Pathobiology.
the Fish Vet’s team will give you that edge when it comes to solving problems with your fish. Whether it be your aquarium fish, or your fish farm, we’ve got the knowledge, skills and experience to handle it.
Download and keep our Services Manual handy.
TFV Services and Fees 2016.pdf
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Yours sincerely,
Dr Richmond Loh DipProjMgt, BSc, BVMS, MPhil (Pathology), MANZCVS (Aquatics & Pathobiology), CertAqV, CMAVA, NATA Signatory.
Aquatic Veterinarian & Veterinary Pathologist
THE FISH VET, AUSTRALIA – PERTH | MELBOURNE | TOWNSVILLE
Mobile Aquatic Veterinary Medical & Diagnostic Services.
