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Summary
Ethmoid tumors, linked to a herpes-virus, were found in Swedish elk and deer. Birds may spread these malignant tumors between elk and potentially to India.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Wildlife Epidemiology
- Oncology
Context:
- Ethmoid tumors, characterized by expansive and infiltrative growth of carcinomatous or sarcomatous nature, originate from the ethmoid bone's mucous membrane.
- Historical records from Sweden (1947-1982) indicate tumor frequencies of approximately 1% in elk (Alces a. alces) and 0.1% in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus).
- These malignant tumors cause extensive destruction of soft and hard tissues in the ethmoid region, invading cranial cavities and subcutaneous tissues, leading to symptoms like nasal discharge and neurological disorders.
Purpose:
- To investigate the nature, prevalence, and potential transmission routes of ethmoid tumors in Swedish wildlife, particularly elk and roe deer.
- To explore the historical occurrence of ethmoid tumors in domestic animals and their potential link to wildlife cases.
- To identify potential vectors for ethmoid tumor transmission, considering avian species migration patterns.
Summary:
- Malignant ethmoid tumors were identified in female elk and roe deer in Sweden, exhibiting destructive growth and associated clinical signs.
- A herpes-virus was identified in ethmoid tumors from Indian cattle, with similar geographical distribution patterns observed in Swedish cattle and elk, suggesting a potential shared etiology or transmission.
- The disappearance of tumors from domestic animals while persisting in elk suggests elk may be primary carriers, with migratory birds suspected as vectors due to overlapping habitats and migration routes to India.
Impact:
- Highlights the potential for zoonotic or shared environmental disease transmission between domestic animals and wildlife.
- Identifies specific bird species as potential vectors for ethmoid tumor spread, necessitating further research into avian-borne viral diseases.
- Provides crucial epidemiological data on ethmoid tumors in wildlife, informing conservation and disease management strategies for affected species.