Remote Pathology

Context

Cattle mortality is increasing across Europe, causing economic losses, reduced protein production, poorer animal welfare, and endangering food security and self-sufficiency. Identifying the causes of death is therefore essential.

Research shows that post-mortem examination through necropsies is the most reliable method for determining the disease and cause of death in cattle, providing an accurate diagnosis in up to 97% of cases, compared with only 43% accuracy when relying on clinical signs in live animals.

Understanding the causes of death is essential for addressing underlying herd health problems. In Finland, however, fewer than 300 cattle necropsies are conducted annually, largely due to transportation challenges (long distances, high costs, limited transportation options) and the restricted availability of veterinary pathology services. As a result, too few examinations are performed, hindering the detection of herd health problems and weakening national disease surveillance.

Objectives 

The main aim is to make pathology services available to every cattle farm , regardless of location, by investigating the causes of disease through remote post-mortem examinations. This will support producers making correct and effective treatment decisions, reducing mortality and the number of replacement animals needed, with an overall positive effect on the environment.

The project supports the One Health approach, as early detection and control can limit the spread of infectious diseases within farms and across the country, supporting domestic and international disease surveillance, and strengthening preparedness for disease outbreaks. Evidence-based treatment decisions can also reduce unnecessary antimicrobial use and help combat antimicrobial resistance.

Increased sampling and research capacity will enhance animal and public health protection and animal welfare, while supporting sustainable food production, food security, self-sufficiency, and the overall security of supply. Finally, it should provide assistance to producers, minimise financial losses, and improve occupational well-being.

Activities

The project has developed practical methods for necropsies on farms, sample collection, transport, and diagnostic testing. Guidelines have been prepared covering farm preparations, assisting the veterinarian, biosecurity and cleaning procedures, and carcass disposal. Three producer webinars have been organised, and educational materials are available through a dedicated project website.

A major focus of the project has been training. 19 veterinarians from different regions of Finland have been trained through webinars and hands-on practical sessions. They have been supplied with the equipment and protective gear necessary for necropsies. The project has produced both written and video-based training materials that will continue to support the wider adoption of the model after the project concludes.

The real-time video connection allows the pathologist to directly observe pathological changes, reducing the limitations of still photographs and ensuring accurate interpretation. It improves communication between the farmer, veterinarian, and pathologist, creating a more complete understanding of each case. Farmer participation increases awareness of disease causes and encourages timely preventive actions.

To ensure diagnostic accuracy, the project is evaluating optimal sampling methods, the number of samples required, and efficient logistics for samples. Approximately 60 post-mortems have already been completed, with another 40 cases planned by autumn 2026. The final service model will be refined using experience and feedback collected from veterinarians and farmers.

The project has generated extensive visibility through social media, agricultural publications, veterinary communications, conferences, and industry events. Results will be further disseminated during 2027 through media outreach, seminars, and professional meetings.

Generational Renewal

The project strongly supports young professionals and women in the cattle and veterinary sectors. It is led by a woman, and the project employee is a woman under 40 who is gaining specialist training in veterinary pathology, strengthening her career opportunities. Most specialists and laboratory professionals involved are female, and the project enables valuable knowledge transfer from experienced experts to the next generation.

The project benefits young female veterinarians at the beginning of their careers. They gain practical skills, professional support, and encouragement to continue working with cattle.

Several young female cattle producers participate in the project, using it as an opportunity to develop their farms and professional expertise. The Operational Group provides an important network.

Young female veterinary students contribute to the project and gain early experience in veterinary medicine. Social media has been an effective outreach tool, with around 70% of Instagram viewers under 40 years of age.

Main Results

Over a six-month period, 60 remote post-mortem examinations have been completed, producing encouraging results.

The examinations have helped producers improve housing conditions and management, leading to better welfare and potentially reducing disease incidence and mortality. Examinations have also supported targeted treatment decisions to improve treatment outcomes and prevent antibiotic resistance.

The model provides a practical, low-cost diagnostic solution that requires no major investment from farmers or veterinarians. By enabling wider use of pathology expertise, it improves disease investigation, supports faster and effective interventions, reduces losses, and helps farmers better manage the challenges associated with livestock production.

The project has shown that remote post-mortem examinations are a practical and effective way to expand access to pathology services for cattle farms. Farmers gain a better understanding of animal health, diseases, and treatment by participating in examinations, encouraging them to implement preventive measures and improve herd management.

Key lessons

Research showed that remote post-mortem models, which are used in countries such as Canada and Sweden, rely on photographs, which limit diagnostic accuracy due to image quality and incomplete visual information. This project realised the importance of a real-time video-based model that enables live consultation between veterinarians, pathologists, and farmers using a standard smartphone. The pathologist can observe findings directly, guide, and make a more reliable diagnosis.

The project managers were also aware of the need to build on Finland’s existing network of local authority veterinarians and pathology specialists, bringing together representatives from the dairy and meat industries, research organisations, and experts from the University of Helsinki and the Finnish Food Authority, to ensure that all perspectives are taken into account.