Jonesing For Johne’s - AFB Control Tissue

Recorded On: 09/30/2025

This workshop discusses the impact of Johne’s Disease and its importance to Acid Fast Bacteria staining. Johne's disease, Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis (MAP), is a chronic granulomatous infection primarily affecting ruminants, particularly cattle, sheep, and goats. The pathology of Johne's disease involves the formation of granulomas, which are clusters of immune cells attempting to control the infection but often failing to clear the pathogen. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through fecal culture, PCR testing, or postmortem histopathology. The disease poses a significant economic burden due to its impact on livestock production, including reduced milk yield and increased veterinary costs. Johne's disease, Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis (MAP), is a chronic granulomatous infection primarily affecting ruminants, particularly cattle, sheep, and goats. The disease is characterized by progressive diarrhea, weight loss, and reduced milk production. MAP infects the intestinal tract, primarily the ileum and jejunum, leading to thickening of the intestinal walls and impaired nutrient absorption. The pathology of Johne's disease involves the formation of granulomas, which are clusters of immune cells attempting to control the infection but often failing to clear the pathogen. These granulomas are the hallmark of the disease and lead to the characteristic thickening of the intestinal lining. The infection is typically subclinical in the early stages but becomes clinically noticeable as it progresses. The immune response is largely ineffective, allowing MAP to persist in the host for years before the animal shows clinical signs. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through fecal culture, PCR testing, or postmortem histopathology. There is no effective cure for Johne's disease, and management typically focuses on reducing transmission, including culling infected animals and improving biosecurity practices. The disease poses a significant economic burden due to its impact on livestock production, including reduced milk yield and increased veterinary costs.

CEUs: This histology course is worth 1 continuing education credit. Course is available for 365 days from date of registration.

Kathryn Stoll

I am a dedicated histology professional currently enjoying the role of Histology Technical Support at Newcomer Supply. I have had the privilege to work in a variety of laboratories ranging from a small local hospital lab to a major university medical center. My experience in multiple clinical and research environments include technician and supervisory roles. As a leader I cultivate a positive culture and embrace change as an opportunity for growth. I have a rare passion for laboratory regulatory compliance and have been active in my state histology society and as a CAP inspector.

Tori Smith

Tori Smith is a certified Histotechnician (ASCP) with experience in histotechnology, pathology sciences, and applied biotechnology. She holds a MS -Applied Biotechnology with a specialization in QA/QC from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, where her capstone project focused on developing a xylene-free diagnostic laboratory. She also earned a Histotechnology Certification from the University of North Dakota.

Tori is a Microbiologist II - Pathology Sciences Lead at the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, where she specializes in histology, necropsy, and transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE) diagnostics. She performs routine and special staining, tissue processing, embedding, sectioning, and immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Tori is dedicated to advancing histotechnology through research, process improvements, and education. She has presented at National Society for Histotechnology (NSH) conventions, discussing xylene-free laboratory environments and comparative staining methodologies. She serves as President of the Wisconsin Histology Society and actively participates in professional development and training.
Her certifications include Histotechnician (ASCP), Digital Pathology Certification (NSH), and Quality Management Training (NVSL).