Factors associated with lung cytology as obtained by non-endoscopic broncho-alveolar lavage in group-housed calves.

Only a limited number of clinical signs and ultrasonographic findings were associated with nBAL cytology. BALf cytology offers additional and distinct information in calves aiding in detection and prevention of respiratory conditions. In this population, selected from herds not reporting any recent respiratory illness, a high number of calves had ultrasonographic lung consolidation and high neutrophil percentage in BALf, suggesting that subclinical disease presentations frequently occur.