Anaplasma Phagocytophilum - Laboratory Diagnosis

Laboratory Diagnosis

Three tests can be performed to determine an A. phagocytophilum infection:

1. Indirect immunofluorescence assay is the principal test used to detect infection. The acute and convalescent phase serum samples can be evaluated to look for a four-fold change in antibody titer to A. phagocytophilum.
2. Intracellular Inclusions (morulae) are visualized in granulocytes on Wright- or Giemsa- stained blood smears.
3. Polymerase chain reaction assays are used to detect A. phagocytophilum DNA.