Lumpy Skin Disease Virus Infected Calves Showing Multisystemic Vasculitis on Postmortem Examination: A Summary of Six...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Animal Pathology
• Molecular Epidemiology

Background:

• Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a significant transboundary viral threat to cattle and buffalo in Bangladesh.
• Increasing calf mortality rates have been observed, with limited documentation of underlying pathology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the pathological basis of fatal calf mortality linked to Lumpy skin disease in Bangladesh.
• To perform molecular analysis of circulating LSD virus (LSDV) strains.

Main Methods:

• Pathological examination of six deceased calves.
• Molecular analysis including whole-genome phylogenetic analysis of LSDV isolates.
• Histopathology and gross pathology assessments.

Main Results:

• Calf mortality presented with vasculitis-driven multisystemic pathology, including severe pneumonia, hepatitis, nephritis, and lymphoid depletion.
• Molecular analysis confirmed the circulation of classical cluster 1.2 LSDV, with genetic variations noted.
• Phylogenetic analysis suggested potential cross-border viral movement and evolution.

Conclusions:

• Classical cluster 1.2 LSDV is circulating in Bangladesh, potentially with increased virulence in calves.
• Findings highlight the need for sustained genomic surveillance, vaccination, and biosecurity measures.
• Urgent interventions are required to mitigate future Lumpy skin disease outbreaks and protect livestock.