The effect of sample handing on test results for antigen capturing ELISA for BVDV.

Certain handling practices of diagnostic samples may affect the sensitivity and specificity of the antigen capturing ELISA (ACE) for bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV). Leaving samples at room temperature for an extended period of time may have a negative impact on test sensitivity, and failure to wash the ear notcher between subsequent skin sampling may lead to virus accumulation and may decrease test specificity. We tested these hypotheses in two studies by collecting known positive and negative samples and giving groups of samples different treatments.