Diagnóstico da doença respiratória bovina em confinamentos de gado de corte: Desafios e o que temos de novo

Abstract

Despite scientific advances, bovine respiratory disease (BRD) remains the most common and economically important disease in the modern feedlot industry. Susceptibility to BRD is multifactorial, influenced by a complex interaction between multiple viral and bacterial pathogens and the host’s immune response. DRB represents the biggest indication for bovine antimicrobials worldwide, especially for prophylaxis and metaphylaxis. Along with reduced deaths, handling costs, performance and carcass value, BRD leads to large fat losses for livestock farmers. Current diagnostic methods are based on subjective visual signs of disease, often combined with rectal temperature or lung auscultation and, if the disease is diagnosed, antimicrobial treatment protocols are used. The big challenge is that these subjective signs can lead to some misdiagnosis. However, new tools have emerged in an attempt to overcome the challenges in diagnosing BRD. A growing world population, consumer demand for less antimicrobial use, public concerns about animal welfare, declining agricultural base and narrow profit margins are just some of the reasons why research on managing BRD must continue.