Applied Clinical Pathology and Diabetes Management for Veterinary Practice

Course overview

This continuing education course provides veterinary professionals with a practical, case-based review of clinical pathology and internal medicine to enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient care in small animal practice. Participants will explore the normal and pathologic mechanisms of body cavity fluid formation, classify body cavity effusions based on their underlying pathophysiology, and apply best practices for sample collection, handling, and analysis. The course emphasizes the interpretation of complete blood count (CBC), serum biochemistry, and cytologic findings through clinical case examples, helping participants determine when additional diagnostic testing is indicated and select the most appropriate tests to guide diagnosis. Attendees will review proper specimen collection, handling, and processing techniques, along with the indications for diagnostic sampling, essential information required for laboratory submission, tissue collection methods, tube selection, sample storage, staining techniques, and recognition of common artifacts that may affect interpretation. The course also includes a review of diabetes mellitus in dogs and cats, focusing on current diagnostic approaches, evidence-based management strategies, patient monitoring, and newer therapeutic options available to improve glycemic control and clinical outcomes. Upon completion of this course, participants will be better equipped to integrate laboratory findings with clinical assessment to support accurate diagnosis, informed treatment decisions, and improved patient care.