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Liver abscesses in feedlot cattle: a review
1Department of Animal Sciences, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506, USA.
Journal of Animal Science
|February 17, 1998
Summary
Beef cattle liver abscesses, common in feedlots, cause significant economic loss. Tylosin, an antibiotic feed additive, effectively reduces liver abscess incidence by inhibiting Fusobacterium necrophorum.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Science
- Bacterial Pathogenesis
Background:
- Liver abscesses in feedlot cattle are a significant economic issue, impacting producers, packers, and consumers.
- Incidence rates range from 12-32%, driven by diet and management, leading to condemnation and reduced performance.
- Fusobacterium necrophorum is the primary cause, often linked to ruminal acidosis and subsequent epithelial damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the etiology and economic impact of liver abscesses in beef cattle.
- To evaluate the efficacy of antimicrobial compounds, particularly tylosin, in controlling liver abscesses.
- To understand the role of Fusobacterium necrophorum virulence factors and potential for immune-based control.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on beef cattle liver abscesses.
- Analysis of economic impacts including liver condemnation and reduced productivity.
- Examination of antimicrobial control strategies and their mechanisms of action.
Main Results:
- Aggressive grain feeding is a primary driver of liver abscesses.
- Tylosin is the most effective approved antibiotic, reducing incidence by 40-70% through inhibition of F. necrophorum.
- Limited understanding of F. necrophorum virulence factors hinders development of alternative control methods.
Conclusions:
- Liver abscesses pose a substantial economic threat in beef production.
- Antimicrobial feed additives, especially tylosin, are crucial for managing incidence.
- Further research into F. necrophorum pathogenesis and immunity is needed for novel control strategies.