Theriogenology – Problems of Pregnancy Practice Test

Collecting samples in abortion investigations is done to identify the etiologic agents causing the abortion. By examining fetal tissues, placenta, and sometimes maternal samples, we can detect infectious pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, parasites, or fungi, or reveal noninfectious factors involved. Knowing the exact cause guides effective herd-level actions—targeted biosecurity measures, vaccination or management changes, and prevention strategies to stop future abortions. It also helps assess any zoonotic risk and trace sources of infection. Without sampling, diagnosis would rely on non-specific signs and history, which can be misleading. The other aims listed (like increasing milk yield, measuring growth rate, or monitoring feed intake) do not address identifying the cause of abortion and are not the purpose of sampling in this context.