Preliminary study of a support system for noninvasive pneumonia detection using breath sound analysis in calves

Abstract

Pneumonia in calves is caused by a complex association between host, pathogen, and environmental factors, and it
is challenging to detect the subclinical stages. Therefore, it is crucial to accurately and rapidly identify calves with
pneumonia on farms to provide appropriate treatment in a timely manner. In the present study, we focused on the
frequency components of lung sounds to distinguish calves with and without pneumonia, without the need for
veterinary expertise. In addition, we evaluated the pathogenesis of pneumonia by clarifying the relationship between
the frequency components of lung sounds and lung ultrasound findings in calves. Although further case accumulation
is needed, the findings of the present study suggest that the frequency component analysis of lung sounds determined
using auscultation may be a useful tool for detecting respiratory abnormalities and that the mean power frequency
value of the lung sounds auscultated at the fifth intercostal space may aid in understanding the pathogenesis of
interstitial pneumonia.