Quick Answer
Lab tests are generally more accurate for detecting Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) than field tests, but field tests can provide rapid on-site results for screening large numbers of animals. Lab tests involve sending tissue samples to a laboratory for analysis, while field tests use portable devices to detect the presence of CWD prions.
Choosing a Testing Method
When deciding between lab and field tests for CWD, consider the number of animals being tested and the desired level of accuracy. Lab tests are ideal for individual testing of high-priority animals, such as those showing clinical symptoms of CWD or having a high risk of exposure. Lab tests involve sending tissue samples, such as brain or lymph node tissue, to a laboratory for analysis using immunohistochemistry (IHC) or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests. These tests are highly sensitive and specific, with a detection rate of 98-99% or higher.
Field Testing Considerations
Field tests, on the other hand, are better suited for large-scale surveillance programs or for testing multiple animals quickly. Commercially available field tests use portable devices to detect the presence of CWD prions in tissue samples. These tests are often less sensitive than lab tests, with a detection rate of 80-90%, but can provide rapid on-site results for screening large numbers of animals. Field tests can be particularly useful for identifying high-risk animals or areas with a high prevalence of CWD.
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