ABSTRACT
The published literature in Brazil on pathological processes in bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana Shaw, 1802) began in the 1980s, though most of it was published in the 90s. Before this, communications were scarce and were concerned with general aspects of pathology. This situation began to change in 1984, with communications focused on specific issues. This change was due to the fact that growers were moving away from the former empirically based methods to develop modern and commercial organizations with scientific orientation, as well as the advent of the National Meeting of Frogfbreeding, held every 2 years, and the organization of Frogbreeder Associations. From this point on, any case of disease/mortality became a serious problem to farmers and the solution involved various research institutions and universities, as well developmental agencies in diagnosis, control prevention and treatment of bullfrog diseases. A total of 127 documents were compiled, 36 concerning bacteriology; 25 general health; 23 parasitology; 17 on distinct pathological processes; 12 on micology; 5 concerning water; 3 on viruses; 3 references; 2 concerning treatments and 1 about predator. The period was from 1947 (first) until 2001.
KEY WORDS:
Bullfrog; Rana catesbeiana; pathology; diseases; review; Brazil.