Occurrence of malignant neoplasia in adult cattle at slaughter

Summary

​The occurrence of malignant neoplasia in adult cattle at slaughter is the "leading cause of condemnation of the carcases of adult cattle". However, very little is known about the management of this issue and the diagnostic accuracy of the inspection process. Greater knowledge surrounding this area will potentially result in reduced condemnations and improved management of affected carcases.
Enhanced accuracy surrounding disposition subsequent to diagnosis of malignant neoplasia is important in order to optimize both economic return from the slaughter process, and to protect consumer public health and/or public health perception.
A review of the literature has found studies focusing on particular types of neoplasia and their associated characteristics. Research investigating the characteristics of lesions in adult cattle at slaughter and the decision process leading to a disposition in Australia is currently not well represented in the literature.
 
The project consists of two parts, the aims of which, as outlined in the Terms of reference, are outlined below:
Part A - Gross characteristics
The aim of this part of the project was to define the frequency and gross characteristics of various neoplasms causing condemnation of tissues or carcases at Australian export abattoirs (excluding ocular SCC).
Part B - Histological characteristics
The aim of Part B was to characterise the histological attributes of lesions identified by meat inspection as malignant neoplasia ("tumours" using the AS terminology) in the carcases of adult cattle at Australian export abattoirs (excluding ocular SCC).