International Journal of Insect and Animal Diversity Research

Ultrasonographic Mapping of Infectious Pulmonary Lesions in Ruminants: Diagnostic Patterns and Clinical Correlations\r\n

Mohammed T Al-Noaemy¹

1. ¹

Abstract

Infectious respiratory diseases are among the most important causes of morbidity and mortality in ruminants, and cause significant economic losses on cattle, sheep and goat farms. This review aims to draw an ultrasonographic map of infectious lung lesions in ruminants and identify diagnostic patterns and their clinical relationships. The review was based on the analysis of clinical case studies that used thoracic ultrasonography (TUS) in field conditions, with standardized protocols, a 7.5 MHz probe, and scanning of the third to tenth intercostal spaces. Five main patterns have been classified: inflammatory pneumosclerosis, abscess formation, emphysematous and necrotic lesions, pleural involvement and pleural effusion, and diffuse interstitial changes. These patterns have been associated with bacterial pathogens such as Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, and Mycoplasma bovis, as well as fungal, parasitic, and mycobacterial pathogens. Ultrasonography has shown utility in determining lesion severity and stage, supporting therapeutic decision and estimating prognosis, with varying sensitivity, specificity and predictive values. It also reviewed clinical cases including infectious pleuropneumonia, lung adenocarcinoma in sheep, and caseous lymphadenitis. The importance of linking clinical, laboratory and imaging data to interpret atypical cases is highlighted. Limitations related to air segments, acoustic window depth, probe pressure, and scanning angle are discussed, and their impact on repeatability. The examination remains dependent on the operator's experience and requires integration with X-rays, CT scans, and laboratory analyses. The review recommends standardization of protocols and expansion of research to improve the accuracy of diagnosis and management of infectious pulmonary diseases in ruminants.\r\n

Keywords: Thoracic ultrasoundruminantsinfectious pneumoniaPulmonary sclerosispleural effusionPulmonary abscessesdiagnosisClinical correlations

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