The use of ultrasonography within the veterinary species allows rapid and non-invasive examination by the practitioner, with results obtained returned immediately. It is easy to see therefore why ultrasonographic examination would be the technology of choice for breeders, farmers and veterinarians. One issue surrounding the veterinary species is the lack of information pertaining to certain diseases and the clinical information required to make a definitive diagnosis – and it is in this area that ultrasound may be able to help.

This week we start by looking at an ailment called Johne’s disease (caused by Mycobacterium avium ss. paratuberculosis) or paratuberculosis in relation to goats. An efficient and reliable method for JD detection would be greatly advantageous to allow the appropriate actions to be taken. One study carried out by Tharwat M. et al (Transabdominal ultrasonographic findings in goats with paratuberculosis, Can Vet J/The Canadian Veterinary Journal, 2012 Oct, 53(10): pp1063-1070), sought to do just this with the primary result revealing that goats presenting with JD had bigger mesenteric lymph nodes. As a general rule, an increase in the size of lymph nodes within the body can be indicative of an infection or inflammatory condition. The ultrasonographic examination also revealed a hypoechoic cortex and hyperechoic medulla which can be identified by the darkness/brightness of the tissue being examined. Following on, the cortex being hypoechoic will therefore present as darker when compared to the cortex under normal conditions, whilst the medulla being described as hyperechoic will present as brighter when compared to normal conditions (Veterinary Radiology).

This study also explained the clear benefits of utilising ultrasound technology in goats to assess the condition of the intestine, despite its value with respect to JD not appearing to be as useful. The ability to use the size of the mesenteric lymph nodes as an indicator for the presence of JD in goats is therefore of great interest to practitioners. It is important to note that the results of ultrasound scanning should be used in conjunction with other tests in order to confidently diagnose a case of JD.

The use of ultrasound technology in diagnosing certain medical conditions that afflict the veterinary species is discussed over the next few weeks, so be sure to check the Vet Image Solutions website regularly. For any information on the ultrasound equipment we stock, or for any advice, please don’t hesitate to contact us by clicking here.