Enzootic pneumonia-like lesions: Ultrasound vs pathological findings under field conditions

Abstract

Thoracic ultrasonography has been increasingly utilized as a diagnostic tool in human and veterinary medicine. However, limited data are currently available about its field application in pigs. The present study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of thoracic ultrasonography in pigs affected by enzootic pneumonia-like lesions. Following technique verification on cadavers, ultrasound investigations were performed on the thorax of healthy and diseased live pigs to assess lungs. Overall, results indicated that ultrasonography was effective to discriminate between healthy and diseased lungs, with enzootic pneumonia-like lesions showing an easily recognizable ultrasonographic pattern. Thoracic ultrasonography could contribute to better manage porcine respiratory diseases.