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Aleutian disease in the ferret
A J Kenyon1, T Magnano, C F Helmboldt
1Department of Animal Diseases, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|March 15, 2012
Summary
Ferrets can carry the Aleutian disease (AD) agent for over 136 days, unlike hamsters which clear it within 21 days. This study observed lymphocytic infiltrates in ferrets from ranches with AD-infected mink.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Animal Pathology
Background:
- Aleutian disease (AD) is a significant pathogen in mink populations.
- Understanding the persistence and host-pathogen interactions of AD is crucial for disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the duration of infectivity of the Aleutian disease agent in ferrets and hamsters.
- To identify potential pathological markers associated with AD infection in ferrets.
Main Methods:
- Ferrets and hamsters were inoculated with AD-infective material of mink origin.
- Animals were monitored for the presence of the infective agent post-inoculation.
- Histopathological examination of ferret tissues was performed.
- A survey of ferrets from different ranches was conducted.
Main Results:
- Ferrets harbored the AD agent for at least 136 days post-inoculation.
- Hamsters cleared the AD agent by 21 days post-inoculation.
- Massive periportal lymphocytic infiltrates were observed in some ferrets.
- Similar infiltrates were found in ferrets from ranches with AD-infected mink.
Conclusions:
- Ferrets exhibit prolonged carriage of the Aleutian disease agent compared to hamsters.
- Lymphocytic infiltrates in ferrets may serve as a pathological indicator of AD exposure, particularly in environments with infected mink.
