Brisket disease primarily affects which organ in cattle?

Brisket disease, also known as high-altitude disease, predominantly impacts the heart of cattle. This condition arises when cattle are exposed to high altitudes where there is a decrease in oxygen levels. The heart must work harder to pump blood to deliver oxygen to the tissues, which can lead to right-sided heart failure and other cardiovascular complications. The disease is characterized by fluid accumulation in the brisket area, which is indicative of the heart's inability to manage the increased demand.

While the other organs mentioned may be influenced by the overall health status of the animal or affected in various ways by other diseases, they are not the primary organs involved in brisket disease. The liver may experience changes due to general health decline, the lungs can develop complications from high altitude, and the kidneys may be affected by systemic circulatory issues, but the heart is the organ most directly associated with the pathophysiology of brisket disease. Understanding this connection helps in recognizing the importance of monitoring heart health in cattle, particularly in high-altitude environments.