Literaturdatenbank
Literaturdatenbank |
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Allender, M. C. , Understanding iridovirus: an emerging pathogen in free-ranging and captive chelonians. Paper presented at IUCN TSA and IUCN TFTSG 2007 Annual Meeting.
Added by: Admin (14 Aug 2008 20:33:41 UTC) |
| Resource type: Proceedings Article BibTeX citation key: Allender2007a View all bibliographic details  |
Categories: General Keywords: Chelonia, Cheloniidae, Schildkröten = turtles + tortoises, Veterinärmedizin = veterinary medicine, Viren = viruses Creators: Allender Collection: IUCN TSA and IUCN TFTSG 2007 Annual Meeting |
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| Abstract |
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Numerous infectious and non-infectious agents have been implicated in mortalities affecting free-ranging and captive turtles and tortoises. One infectious agent that has been increasingly reported to affect chelonians is Ranavirus, a member of the iridovirus family. Worldwide Ranavirus infections are emerging among wild and captive chelonian populations. Clinical manifestations of iridoviral infections in reptiles are not always present, but may include lethargy, dyspnea, ocular, nasal and oral discharges, and death. Oral lesions are usually slightly raised, white plaques that are easily seen during an oral examination. Other signs may include subcutaneous edema, hepatitis, necrotizing splenitis, conjunctivitis, and pneumonia. The duration of disease is short, and many free-ranging animals likely die prior to their presentation at wildlife rehabilitation centers or clinics. The mode of transmission of reptile iridoviral infections is unknown; however, the occurrence of viral particles in circulating blood cells suggests the possibility that the virus may be transmitted via blood-feeding parasites. Diagnosis of iridovirus is currently validated by using a polymerase chain reaction targeting the major capsid protein of frog virus 3. Samples should be taken from tissues with a high viral load such as the spleen, liver, oral mucosa, and blood. A serologic assay using ELISA has been established for use in gopher tortoises. Treatment of iridovirus has been successfully attempted in some cases. Treatment with oral acyclovir orally has been indicated to stop viral replication and to aid in the immune clearance of the pathogen. Pharmacokinetic studies to establish a dosing protocol and therapeutic drug concentrations are needed, but a dose of 80 mg/kg given once daily has been reported. Cooperation among veterinarians, biologists, local, state, and national governments, and the public will be integral to the management of iridovirus infections in chelonians.
Added by: Admin |