Viruses in reptiles

Summarized by Piret Metsame 2011

Article information

Author: Ellen Ariel

Published in: Veterinary Research 2011, 42:100

Introduction

The etiology of reptilian viral diseases can be attributed to a wide range of viruses accross different genera and families.

The focus points in the studies into reptile viruses have changed over time.

During the last decade, there has been more emphasis put on the issue of reptiles, specially crocodiles and alligators.

Introduction (2)

Due to the low commercial value of reptiles, the low availability of animals and difficulties getting permits, the studies and resources are still scarce.

The importance of reptiles is increasing as well as the need for research into their diseases.

With the current trend and affordable sequencing costs, researchers will keep looking for and finding viruses in reptiles at a great rate.

Aim

To introduce reptile viruses and their characteristics.

To bring focus on the issue of reptile viruses.

Methods of working with reptilian viruses

Generally, diagnosis of reptilian viruses can be approached like all other viruses.

Histopathology can give the initial indication of a viral infection and most infections are described alongside the pathological changes they induce.

Electron microscopy used to be the ultimate diagnostic tool for viruses, but polymerase chain reaction has revolutionized our ability to identify infectious agents.

Reptilian viruses described by virus families

HerpesviridaeManifests as acute signs which may turn latent and be unnoticeable for the rest of the animals life, or until the host becomes sufficiently stressed for the virus to reappear as a disease.

ParamyxoviridaTarget organ- respiratory tract.

Lesions in the lungs and occasionally in the brain.

Reptilian viruses described by virus families (2)

PoxviridaeOn reptiles manifests as skin lesions on the ventral skin, head region or in the oral cavity.

Morbidity high but mortality low.

AdenoviridaeThey cause respiratory infections in many vertebrate species.

Infections in reptiles can be accompanied by lethargy, neurological disorder, esophagitis, hepatitis, splenitis or gastroenteritis.

Reptilian viruses described by virus families (3)

PapillomaviridaeIndentified by electron microscopy.

ReoviridaeCan cause severe and often fatal disease in reptiles typically presenting as pneumonia and neurological disorder.

Identification by PCR.

Reptilian viruses described by virus families (4)

ArbovirusesArthropod-borne viruses.

Many are pathogenic to humans, but reptiles and amphibians can represent an alternative host (reservoir).

PicornaviridaLoss of appetite, abnormal faeces and regurgitation.

Identified via electron microscopy.

Summary

A multitude of viruses exists in reptiles, some of which are described above, and no doubt many more will be described in the future.

Transmission may in some cases be via vectors such as arthropods or leeches, whereas others by direct contact presumably, but most transmission routes are unknown.

Due to the lack of commercial value, very little is known about reptilian viruses.

Source

http://www.veterinaryresearch.org/content/pdf/1297-9716-42-100.pdf

Pictures:

http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/reptile

http://www.public-domain-image.com/animals/reptiles/snake/slides/snake-reptile.html

http://www.zastavki.com/eng/Animals/Reptiles/wallpaper-19497.html

http://www.africa-nature-photography.com/nile-crocodile-2.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Two_american_alligators.jpg

http://madaerah.org/

Thank you for your attention!

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