Tests used to detect TSE
The UK uses EU-approved rapid tests to detect TSEs. All rapid tests used for monitoring BSE and scrapie in EU countries must be approved by the EU Commission. Approved tests are listed in Annex X of Regulation 999/2001, Eur-Lex.
TSE testing in exotic animals
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) testing
If CWD testing is required, the UK national reference laboratory (NRL) for TSE at APHA follows Guidelines for the detection of CWD in cervids.
These guidelines were developed using recommendations made by the UK NRL for TSE and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Opinion CWD (Part II), adopted in 2017. They assist European countries planning to carry out targeted surveillance of cervids.
Camel Prion Disease (CPrD) testing
If CPrD testing is required, the UK NRL for TSE at APHA diagnoses and characterises the disease using methods based on the work published by Babelhadj and others (2018).
For adult mammals that exhibit neurological signs but do not have a conclusive diagnosis, you can submit samples for further evaluation to exclude prion disease.
For advice on tissue sampling and submission procedures, email TSE.GlobalNet@apha.gov.uk
Confirmatory testing
All positive rapid test results are confirmed using one of the confirmatory tests listed in the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Terrestrial Manual (chapters 3.4.5 and 3.8.10).
Discriminatory testing
All confirmed TSE-positive cases in small ruminants undergo further classification according to the TSE strain characterisation in small ruminants: a technical handbook (PDF).