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Castillo-Aliaga C, Castro-Seriche S, Jerez-Morales A, Tarlinton R. High prevalence and risk factors of feline leukemia virus infection in Chilean urban cats (Felis catus). Res Vet Sci 2024; 180:105403. [PMID: 39293106 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024]
Abstract
Feline Leukemia Virus is a retrovirus causing fatal disease in domestic cats. While FeLV has been controlled in many countries, it remains a major concern in Latin American countries. This study conducted an epidemiological survey of FeLV in 182 Chilean domestic cats using PCR to detect provirus infection. The results were analysed using Multivariate Logistic Regression to examine risk factors associated with FeLV detection. The FeLV prevalence was 54.95 %, and statistically significant associations (p < 0.05) were found for two protective factors and one risk factor. Cats from Concepcion city (95 %CI 0.08-0.56 %) and cats sampled in 2022 (95 %CI 0.1-0.06 %) had lower odds ratios for provirus positivity, whereas non-vaccinated cats (95 %CI 2.3-15.8 %) had an increased odds ratio. No other factors were statistically significant. The high FeLV prevalence is similar to other Latin American countries and the geographical differences highlighted in this study likely correspond to the socioeconomic status of the owners. This study highlights the need for improved FeLV control measures such as promoting FeLV vaccination, implementing health screening prior to adoption of new cats, and educating owners about FeLV to control its circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristobal Castillo-Aliaga
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom..
| | | | | | - Rachael Tarlinton
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
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Westman ME, Hall E, Norris JM, Meili T, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Malik R. Antiviral therapy in cats progressively infected with feline leukaemia virus: lessons from a series of 18 consecutive cases from Australia. Aust Vet J 2024; 102:453-465. [PMID: 39042044 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is doubtful that any of the treatments proposed for feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) infection are effective, despite the entity being described 60 years ago. METHODS Eighteen pet cats with progressive FeLV infections were recruited in Australia. One or more antiviral drugs were trialled in 16 cats, while two FeLV-infected cats were not handleable and served as untreated controls. Six cats were administered RetroMAD1™ only (0.5 mg/kg orally twice daily), a commercially available recombinant chimeric protein with proposed antiretroviral activity. Three cats were administered the integrase inhibitor raltegravir only (10-15 mg/kg orally twice daily), a drug used as a component of highly effective antiretroviral therapy for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) infection. Three cats were administered RetroMAD1™ and raltegravir concurrently, and four cats were administered raltegravir and the reverse transcriptase inhibitor zidovudine (AZT, 5 mg/kg orally twice daily) concurrently. FeLV RNA and p27 antigen loads were measured at two timepoints (T1-2 months and T3-5 months) during therapy and compared to baseline (pretreatment) levels, to assess the response to therapy using linear modelling. The median survival time (MST) of the cats from commencement of FeLV treatment to death was also determined and compared between treatments. RESULTS The MST for the 16 FeLV-positive cats which received antiviral therapy was 634 days, while the MST from FeLV diagnosis to death for the two untreated control cats was 780 days. In cats treated with RetroMAD1™, FeLV viral load decreased from T0 to T1-2 months (median viral load reduced from 1339 × 106 to 705 × 106 copies/mL plasma; P = 0.012), but MST was reduced compared to cats not given RetroMAD1™ (426 days vs 1006 days; P = 0.049). Cats treated with raltegravir and AZT had no significant changes in FeLV viral load over time, but p27 antigen load was decreased from T0 to T3-5 months in cats treated with raltegravir (median p27 antigen level reduced from 50.2% to 42.7%; P = 0.005). All other results were not significantly affected by the treatment provided. Importantly, statistically significant and substantial associations were found between age at FeLV diagnosis and survival time (P = 0.046, R2 = 18.6) and between FeLV viral load at T0 and survival time (P = 0.004, R2 = 44.4). Younger cats, and cats with higher levels of pretreatment FeLV RNA, had reduced survival times. Cats treated with RetroMAD1™ were typically younger (median age 2.0 vs 8.0 years), likely explaining the observed reduction in MST. A significant association was found between FeLV viral load and p27 antigen load at T0 (P = 0.015, R2 = 32.9). CONCLUSIONS Results from this small case series do not provide convincing support for the use of RetroMAD1™, raltegravir or AZT, alone or in combination, for the treatment of cats progressively infected with FeLV. The changes observed were biologically insignificant. Age and FeLV viral load at diagnosis are useful prognostic markers, and p27 antigen concentration can be used to predict viral load. Larger field trials should be performed examining antiretroviral therapy in FeLV-positive cats with progressive infections, preferably using three or more drugs from at least two classes, as is standard with human antiretroviral therapy. Future studies would be easier in countries with a higher prevalence of FeLV infections than Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Westman
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - E Hall
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - J M Norris
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - T Meili
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, The University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - R Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, The University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - R Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Veterinary and Animal Science, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
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Meli ML, Pineroli B, Geisser E, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Prospective Investigation of Feline Leukemia Virus Infection in Stray Cats Subjected to a Trap-Neuter-Return Program in Switzerland. Viruses 2024; 16:394. [PMID: 38543760 PMCID: PMC10975613 DOI: 10.3390/v16030394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) remains a serious concern in some countries despite advances in diagnostics and vaccines. FeLV-infected cats often have reduced lifespans due to FeLV-associated diseases. The infection is transmitted through social interactions. While Northern European countries have reported a decrease in FeLV among pet cats, Switzerland's rates remain stagnant at 2.7% (2016/17: 95% CI 1.4-5.2%). Research on FeLV in Swiss stray cats has been lacking, even though these animals could serve as a virus reservoir. Sampling stray cats that do not receive regular veterinary care can be challenging. Collaboration with the Swiss Network for Animal Protection (NetAP) allowed for the prospective collection of saliva samples from 1711 stray cats during a trap-neuter-return program from 2019 to 2023. These samples were tested for FeLV RNA using RT-qPCR as a measure for antigenemia. Viral RNA was detected in 4.0% (95% CI 3.1-5.0%) of the samples, with 7.7% (95% CI 4.9-11.3%) in sick cats and 3.3% (95% CI 2.4-4.4%) in healthy ones. We identified three geographically independent hotspots with alarmingly high FeLV infection rates in stray cats (up to 70%). Overall, including the previous data of privately owned cats, FeLV-positive cats were scattered throughout Switzerland in 24/26 cantons. Our findings underscore welfare concerns for FeLV infections among stray cats lacking veterinary attention, highlighting the potential risk of infection to other free-roaming cats, including those privately owned. This emphasizes the critical significance of vaccinating all cats with outdoor access against FeLV and developing programs to protect cats from FeLV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina L. Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.L.M.)
| | - Benita Pineroli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.L.M.)
| | - Esther Geisser
- Network for Animal Protection (NetAP), 8133 Esslingen, Switzerland;
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, and Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; (M.L.M.)
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Ngo MH, AbuEed L, Kawasaki J, Oishi N, Pramono D, Kimura T, Sakurai M, Watanabe K, Mizukami Y, Ochi H, Anai Y, Odahara Y, Umehara D, Kawamura M, Watanabe S, Miyake A, Nishigaki K. Multiple recombination events between endogenous retroviral elements and feline leukemia virus. J Virol 2024; 98:e0140023. [PMID: 38240589 PMCID: PMC10878261 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01400-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is an exogenous retrovirus that causes malignant hematopoietic disorders in domestic cats, and its virulence may be closely associated with viral sequences. FeLV is classified into several subgroups, including A, B, C, D, E, and T, based on viral receptor interference properties or receptor usage. However, the transmission manner and disease specificity of the recombinant viruses FeLV-D and FeLV-B remain unclear. The aim of this study was to understand recombination events between exogenous and endogenous retroviruses within a host and elucidate the emergence and transmission of recombinant viruses. We observed multiple recombination events involving endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) in FeLV from a family of domestic cats kept in one house; two of these cats (ON-T and ON-C) presented with lymphoma and leukemia, respectively. Clonal integration of FeLV-D was observed in the ON-T case, suggesting an association with FeLV-D pathogenesis. Notably, the receptor usage of FeLV-B observed in ON-T was mediated by feline Pit1 and feline Pit2, whereas only feline Pit1 was used in ON-C. Furthermore, XR-FeLV, a recombinant FeLV containing an unrelated sequence referred to the X-region, which is homologous to a portion of the 5'-leader sequence of Felis catus endogenous gammaretrovirus 4 (FcERV-gamma4), was isolated. Genetic analysis suggested that most recombinant viruses occurred de novo; however, the possibility of FeLV-B transmission was also recognized in the family. This study demonstrated the occurrence of multiple recombination events between exogenous and endogenous retroviruses in domestic cats, highlighting the contribution of ERVs to pathogenic recombinant viruses.IMPORTANCEFeline leukemia virus subgroup A (FeLV-A) is primarily transmitted among cats. During viral transmission, genetic changes in the viral genome lead to the emergence of novel FeLV subgroups or variants with altered virulence. We isolated three FeLV subgroups (A, B, and D) and XR-FeLV from two cats and identified multiple recombination events in feline endogenous retroviruses (ERVs), such as enFeLV, ERV-DC, and FcERV-gamma4, which are present in the cat genome. This study highlights the pathogenic contribution of ERVs in the emergence of FeLV-B, FeLV-D, and XR-FeLV in a feline population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minh Ha Ngo
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and Infectious Disease, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Loai AbuEed
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and Infectious Disease, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Junna Kawasaki
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Okubo, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Didik Pramono
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and Infectious Disease, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Tohru Kimura
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Masashi Sakurai
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Kenji Watanabe
- Institute of Gene Research, Science Research Center, Yamaguchi University, Minami-kogushi, Ube, Japan
| | - Yoichi Mizukami
- Institute of Gene Research, Science Research Center, Yamaguchi University, Minami-kogushi, Ube, Japan
| | - Haruyo Ochi
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and Infectious Disease, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Yukari Anai
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and Infectious Disease, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Yuka Odahara
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and Infectious Disease, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Daigo Umehara
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and Infectious Disease, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Maki Kawamura
- Life Science Division, Advanced Technology Institute, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Shinya Watanabe
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and Infectious Disease, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Ariko Miyake
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and Infectious Disease, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Kazuo Nishigaki
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology and Infectious Disease, Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida, Yamaguchi, Japan
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Biezus G, Grima de Cristo T, da Silva Casa M, Lovatel M, Vavassori M, Brüggemann de Souza Teixeira M, Miletti LC, Maciel da Costa U, Assis Casagrande R. Progressive and regressive infection with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) in cats in southern Brazil: Prevalence, risk factors associated, clinical and hematologic alterations. Prev Vet Med 2023; 216:105945. [PMID: 37209619 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.105945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for viral antigen is commonly used for the diagnosis of progressive feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection but is not able to determine the true prevalence of infection when used as the sole test. Additional testing to detect proviral DNA will identify regressive (antigen negative) FeLV infections as well as progressive infections. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of progressive and regressive FeLV infection, outcome-associated factors, and hematologic changes. A cross-sectional study was performed on 384 cats selected from routine hospital care. Blood samples were subjected to complete blood count, ELISA for FeLV antigen and FIV antibody, and nested PCR amplifying the U3- LTR region and gag gene, which are conserved in most exogenous FeLV. The prevalence of FeLV infection was 45.6% (CI95% 40.6-50.6%). The prevalence of progressive infection (FeLV+P) was 34.4% (CI95% 29.6-39.1%), that of regressive infection (FeLV+R) was 10.4% (CI95% 7.4-13.4%), for discordant but positive results 0.8% (CI95% 0.75-0.84%), for FeLV+P coinfected with FIV 2.6% (CI95% 1.2-4.0%), and FeLV+R coinfected with FIV 1.5% (CI95% 0.3-2.7%). Male cats were three times more likely to be in the FeLV+P group. Cats coinfected with FIV were 4.8 times more likely to belong to the FeLV+R group. In the FeLV+P group, the main clinical changes were lymphoma (38.5%), anemia (24.4%), leukemia (17.9%), concomitant infections (15.4%), and feline chronic gingivostomatitis - FCGS (3.8%). In the FeLV+R group, the main clinical signs were anemia (45.4%), leukemia (18.2%), concomitant infections (18.2%), lymphoma (9.1%), and FCGS (9.1%). Cats in the FeLV+P and FeLV+R groups showed mainly thrombocytopenia (56.6% and 38.2%), non-regenerative anemia (32.8% and 23.5%), and lymphopenia (33.6% and 20.6%). Hemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume (PCV), platelet count, lymphocytes, and eosinophils in the FeLV+P and FeLV+R groups had lower medians than the control group (FeLV/FIV-uninfected, healthy). Erythrocyte and eosinophil counts were statistically different among the three groups, with the medians of the FeLV+P and FeLV+R groups being lower than those of the control group. In addition, the median PCV and band neutrophil counts were higher in FeLV+P than in FeLV+R. Our results show a high prevalence of FeLV, different factors associated with the course of infection, and more frequent and severe hematologic changes in progressive infections compared with regressive infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovana Biezus
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Thierry Grima de Cristo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Mariana da Silva Casa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Mariângela Lovatel
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Mayara Vavassori
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | | | - Luiz Claudio Miletti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Ubirajara Maciel da Costa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Renata Assis Casagrande
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina (UDESC), Av. Luís de Camões 2090, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
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Miguel-Pastor L, Satué K, Chicharro D, Peláez P, Torres-Torrillas M, Carrillo JM, Cerón JJ, Sopena JJ, Rubio M. Evaluation of Platelet-Rich Plasma by means of PRGF ®-Endoret ® protocol in leukemia cats: PDGF-BB and TGF-ß1 valuation. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1110055. [PMID: 36777664 PMCID: PMC9909748 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1110055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a chronic disease that leads to the weakening of a cat's immune system. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) offers therapeutic effects for multiple diseases, the use of PRP and growth factors (GFs) determination could be an alternative treatment to improve the quality of life in these patients. The objectives of this study were to determine and compare the concentration of platelets (PLTs), red blood cells (RBCs) and white blood cells (WBCs) between samples of whole blood (WB), PRP and platelet-poor plasma (PPP) fractions, and to evaluate the concentration of platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) in both fractions in FeLV cats using a PRGF®-Endoret® protocol previously standardized in this species. Methods WB was collected from 11 asymptomatic FeLV-positive cats. PRP and PPP was obtained following PRGF®-Endoret® technology according to centrifugation at 265 g for 10 min. Cellular components, RBCs, WBCs, PLTs, and the PDGF-BB and TGF-β1 concentrations in PRP and PPP fractions were determined. Results PLT in the PRP fraction was statistically higher than WB and PPP fraction, with no statistical differences between WB and PPP. PLT concentration increased 1.4 times in PRP fraction compared to WB. Mean platelet volume (MPV) did not differ significantly between the WB, PRP, and PPP fractions. Compared to WB, the absolute numbers of RBCs and WBCs were decreased by 99% and more than 95% in the PRP and PPP fractions, respectively. TGF-ß1 concentrations increased in PRP vs. PPP, with no changes in PDGF-BB. Discussion Based on the degree of PLT enrichment and the absence of RBCs and WBCs, this blood product could be classified as a Pure Platelet-Rich Plasma (P-PRP). The presence of GFs in PRP and PPP samples suggests that the PRGF®-Endoret® methodology is suitable for obtaining PRP in FeLV cats, despite future studies are necessary to optimize the technique, standardize the results and assess clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Miguel-Pastor
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - Katy Satué
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - Deborah Chicharro
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - Pau Peláez
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - Marta Torres-Torrillas
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - José M. Carrillo
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain,García Cugat Foundation CEU-UCH Chair of Medicine and Regenerative Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
| | - José J. Cerón
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Joaquín J. Sopena
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain,García Cugat Foundation CEU-UCH Chair of Medicine and Regenerative Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain,*Correspondence: Joaquín J. Sopena ✉
| | - Mónica Rubio
- Bioregenerative Medicine and Applied Surgery Research Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain,García Cugat Foundation CEU-UCH Chair of Medicine and Regenerative Surgery, CEU Cardenal Herrera University, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
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Dezubiria P, Amirian ES, Spera K, Crawford PC, Levy JK. Animal shelter management of feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus infections in cats. Front Vet Sci 2023; 9:1003388. [PMID: 36744227 PMCID: PMC9890067 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1003388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 5% of cats in animal shelters in the United States test positive for either feline leukemia virus (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), which translates to more than 100,000 positive cats managed by shelters each year. Little is known about the current status of retroviral management in animal shelters, particularly in regions burdened by chronic pet overpopulation and high shelter admissions, such as the southern United States. The purpose of this study was to describe feline retroviral management in Florida shelters. Shelters were surveyed on practices including selection of cats for testing, diagnostic techniques, and outcome options for cats with positive test results. Responses were received from 139 of 153 animal shelters known to admit cats, including 55 municipal shelters (40%), 70 private shelters (50%), and 14 private shelters with municipal contracts (10%). A total of 115 shelters (83%) performed at least some testing, most using combination point-of-care devices for simultaneous FeLV antigen and FIV antibody screening. Of shelters that performed any testing, 56 (49%) tested all cats for FeLV and 52 (45%) tested all cats for both FeLV and FIV. The most common reason for testing was screening adoptable cats (108 shelters; 94%) and cats available for transfer to other organizations (78; 68%). Testing cats in trap-neuter-return/return-to-field programs was least common (21; 18%). Most common outcome options for positive cats included adoption (74; 64%), transfer (62; 54%), and euthanasia (49; 43%). Euthanasia following a positive test result was more common for cats with FeLV (49; 43%) than for cats with FIV (29; 25%) and was more common in municipal shelters, rural shelters, shelters taking in <500 cats a year, and shelters with overall live outcome rates for cats <70%. Although Florida shelter compliance with national guidelines for identification and management of FeLV and FIV positive cats was variable, most had live outcome options for at least some of their cats with positive test results. Increased access to training and practical programmatic tools may help more shelters implement cost-effective testing protocols, reduce risk for transmission to other cats, and support the best outcomes for this vulnerable population of cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Dezubiria
- Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - E. Susan Amirian
- Research Department, Austin Pets Alive!, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Keegan Spera
- Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - P. Cynda Crawford
- Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Julie K. Levy
- Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States,*Correspondence: Julie K. Levy
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Santos CRGR, Ferreira IT, Beranger R, Santi JP, Jardim MPDB, de Souza HJM. Undetectable proviral DNA and viral RNA levels after raltegravir administration in two cats with natural feline leukemia virus infection. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE 2022; 44:e003522. [PMID: 36324639 PMCID: PMC9622269 DOI: 10.29374/2527-2179.bjvm003522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection was discovered over 50 years ago; however, the serious clinical changes associated with FeLV infection still have great importance in the diagnosis, prevention, and clinical management of symptomatic patients. Progressive infection with FeLV leads to a reduction in the patient's life expectancy and quality of life. This report describes the use of an antiretroviral integrase inhibitor, raltegravir, in two cats with natural FeLV infection. Raltegravir was administered orally at a dose of 40 mg/cat every 12 h in both cases. In case one, 13 weeks after starting raltegravir, RNA loads were undetectable, while proviral DNA loads were still detectable. In case two, proviral DNA loads were undetectable after 32 weeks of medication, while RNA loads were undetectable throughout the treatment. No adverse effects or laboratory test abnormalities were detected with the use of raltegravir in either patient. The patients are currently clinically healthy, still receiving the drug, and are under close observation. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing the use of raltegravir in naturally infected FeLV-positive cats and its effects on circulating viral load. Moreover, the patients described here were followed-up for a longer period than those in previously reported cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Regina Gomes Rodrigues Santos
- Veterinarian, MSc. Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Veterinária (PPGMV), Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária (DMCV), Instituto de Veterinária (IV), Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ). Seropédica, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil.,Correspondence Carla Regina Gomes Rodrigues Santos Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária (DMCV), Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro – UFRRJ Rodovia BR 465, Km 7, Campus Universitário, Bairro Zona Rural CEP 23897-000 - Seropédica (RJ), Brasil E-mail: Tel: +55 (21) 96469-2559
| | | | | | - Julia Possebon Santi
- Veterinarian, Resident. Programa de Residência em Medicina Veterinária – Clínica Médica dos Gatos Domésticos, DMCV, IV, UFRRJ. Seropédica, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Mariana Palha de Brito Jardim
- Veterinarian, MSc. Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Veterinária (PPGMV), Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária (DMCV), Instituto de Veterinária (IV), Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ). Seropédica, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil.
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9
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Spada E, Jung H, Proverbio D, Perego R, Baggiani L, Ciuti S, Sharp CR, Nash KJ, Westman M, Lait PJP, Davidow EB. Lack of association between feline AB blood groups and retroviral status: a multicenter, multicountry study. J Feline Med Surg 2022; 24:e194-e202. [PMID: 35635064 PMCID: PMC10812261 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x221100082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The relationship between blood group antigens and disease has been studied in humans. Blood types have been associated with both decreased and increased rates of various infections. In addition, blood group expression has been shown to vary with some cancers and gastrointestinal diseases. The objective of this study was to explore whether there is a relationship between blood type and retroviral infections in cats. METHODS Case records from a veterinary research laboratory, veterinary teaching hospitals and veterinary blood banks were retrospectively searched for cats where both blood type and retroviral status (feline leukemia [FeLV], feline immunodeficiency virus [FIV] or both) were listed (part 1). In addition, a sample of 33 cats with confirmed FIV infection was genotyped to determine blood groups (part 2). RESULTS In part 1, 709 cats were identified, 119 of which were positive for retroviral infection. Among all cases, 621 were type A (87.6%), 68 were type B (9.6%) and 20 were type AB (2.8%). There was no relationship between overall retroviral status (positive/negative) and blood type (P = 0.43), between FeLV status and blood type (P = 0.86) or between FIV status and blood type (P = 0.94). There was no difference in the distribution of blood types between cats that were healthy and typed as possible blood donors vs sick cats that were typed prior to a possible transfusion (P = 0.13). In part 2, of the 33 FIV-infected cats, all blood group genotypes were identified, although this test did not discriminate type A from type AB. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE No relationship was identified between feline retroviral status and blood type in this study. The relationship between blood type and other disease states requires further study in veterinary patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Spada
- Veterinary Transfusion Research Laboratory (REVLab), Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Hyein Jung
- Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Daniela Proverbio
- Veterinary Transfusion Research Laboratory (REVLab), Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Roberta Perego
- Veterinary Transfusion Research Laboratory (REVLab), Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Luciana Baggiani
- Veterinary Transfusion Research Laboratory (REVLab), Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Silvia Ciuti
- Veterinary Transfusion Research Laboratory (REVLab), Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Claire R Sharp
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Katherine J Nash
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Mark Westman
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Philippa JP Lait
- Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Diagnostic Laboratories, Langford Vets, Langford, Bristol, UK
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10
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Giselbrecht J, Bergmann M, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Hartmann K. [Feline leukemia virus infection - a guide to diagnosis]. TIERARZTLICHE PRAXIS. AUSGABE K, KLEINTIERE/HEIMTIERE 2022; 50:198-212. [PMID: 35790167 DOI: 10.1055/a-1845-0750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection affects cats worldwide. The course of FeLV infection can change and vary over time. The complex pathogenesis, the availability of many different testing methods, and the interpretation of test results are often challenging for veterinarians. Cats with progressive infection (persistently p27 antigen-positive) shed FeLV mainly through saliva and are therefore considered a source of infection for uninfected cats. Diagnosing regressive infection is often challenging, since it usually cannot be detected by commonly used point of care-tests (p27 antigen test) and thus, it often remains undetected. Nevertheless, cats with regressive infection are FeLV carriers (provirus-positive) and when the immune system is suppressed, reactivation of the infection and FeLV-associated clinical signs can occur. Abortively infected cats are never viraemic, do not shed virus, and do not develop clinical signs. Abortive infection can solely be diagnosed via antibodies detection in blood. A new point-of-care test for the identification of antibodies against FeLV p15E antigen has recently been introduced on the European market and is currently being evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michèle Bergmann
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
| | | | - Katrin Hartmann
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
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11
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Huang S, Li X, Guo L, You D, Xie W, Xu H, Liu D, Wang Y, Zeng X, Hou Z, Liu E, Ma L, Yang S, Chai H, Wang Y. Prevalence of four viruses in Captive Siberian Tigers from Northeastern China. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:e1434-e1444. [DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shuping Huang
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area Northeast Forestry University Harbin China
| | - Xiang Li
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area Northeast Forestry University Harbin China
| | - Lijun Guo
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area Northeast Forestry University Harbin China
| | - Dan You
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area Northeast Forestry University Harbin China
| | - Wei Xie
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area Northeast Forestry University Harbin China
| | | | - Dan Liu
- Siberian Tiger Park Harbin China
| | - Yulong Wang
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area Northeast Forestry University Harbin China
| | - Xiangwei Zeng
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area Northeast Forestry University Harbin China
| | - Zhijun Hou
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area Northeast Forestry University Harbin China
| | - Enqi Liu
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area Northeast Forestry University Harbin China
| | - Liying Ma
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area Northeast Forestry University Harbin China
| | - Siyuan Yang
- Heilongjiang Vocational College for Nationalities Harbin China
| | - Hongliang Chai
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area Northeast Forestry University Harbin China
| | - Yajun Wang
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area Northeast Forestry University Harbin China
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12
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Rapid characterization of feline leukemia virus infective stages by a novel nested recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) and reverse transcriptase-RPA. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22023. [PMID: 34764397 PMCID: PMC8586258 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01585-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a major viral disease in cats, causing leukemia and lymphoma. The molecular detection of FeLV RNA and the DNA provirus are important for staging of the disease. However, the rapid immunochromatographic assay commonly used for antigen detection can only detect viremia at the progressive stage. In this study, nested recombinase polymerase amplification (nRPA) was developed for exogenous FeLV DNA provirus detection, and reverse transcriptase polymerase amplification (RT-RPA) was developed for the detection of FeLV RNA. The approaches were validated using 108 cats with clinicopathologic abnormalities due to FeLV infection, and from 14 healthy cats in a vaccination plan. The nRPA and RT-RPA assays could rapidly amplify the FeLV template, and produced high sensitivity and specificity. The FeLV detection rate in regression cats by nRPA was increased up to 45.8% compared to the rapid immunochromatographic assay. Hence, FeLV diagnosis using nRPA and RT-RPA are rapid and easily established in low resource settings, benefiting FeLV prognosis, prevention, and control of both horizontal and vertical transmission.
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13
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Beatty JA, Hartmann K. Advances in Feline Viruses and Viral Diseases. Viruses 2021; 13:v13050923. [PMID: 34067533 PMCID: PMC8156448 DOI: 10.3390/v13050923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Julia A. Beatty
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences and Centre for Companion Animal Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University, Hong Kong, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Katrin Hartmann
- Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, 80539 Munich, Germany;
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14
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Beall MJ, Buch J, Clark G, Estrada M, Rakitin A, Hamman NT, Frenden MK, Jefferson EP, Amirian ES, Levy JK. Feline Leukemia Virus p27 Antigen Concentration and Proviral DNA Load Are Associated with Survival in Naturally Infected Cats. Viruses 2021; 13:302. [PMID: 33671961 PMCID: PMC7919025 DOI: 10.3390/v13020302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Longitudinal studies of cats naturally infected with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) are important for understanding disease outcomes. Levels of p27 antigen and copy numbers of proviral DNA have been associated with FeLV-infection courses. The purpose of this prospective study was to establish cutoff values for p27 antigen concentration and proviral DNA load that distinguished high positive from low positive groups of cats and to evaluate an association with survival. At enrollment, 254 cats were tested by point-of-care and microtiter plate enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for p27 antigen and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for proviral DNA. The 127 positive cats were retested monthly for six months and monitored for survival over the four-year study. A receiver operating characteristic-based analysis of samples with concordant or discordant qualitative results for p27 antigen and proviral DNA was used to establish cutoff values, and when applied to test results at enrollment for classifying cats as high positive or low positive, a significant difference in survival was observed. High positive cats had a median survival of 1.37 years (95% CI 0.83-2.02) from time of enrollment, while most low positive cats were still alive (93.1% survival). Quantitative results for p27 antigen concentration and proviral DNA load were highly correlated with survival times in FeLV-infected cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J. Beall
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Westbrook, ME 04092, USA; (J.B.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (A.R.)
| | - Jesse Buch
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Westbrook, ME 04092, USA; (J.B.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (A.R.)
| | - Genevieve Clark
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Westbrook, ME 04092, USA; (J.B.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (A.R.)
| | - Marko Estrada
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Westbrook, ME 04092, USA; (J.B.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (A.R.)
| | - Andrei Rakitin
- IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Westbrook, ME 04092, USA; (J.B.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (A.R.)
| | - Natascha T. Hamman
- Austin Pets Alive!, Austin, TX 78703, USA; (N.T.H.); (M.K.F.); (E.P.J.); (E.S.A.)
| | - Monica K. Frenden
- Austin Pets Alive!, Austin, TX 78703, USA; (N.T.H.); (M.K.F.); (E.P.J.); (E.S.A.)
| | - Ellen P. Jefferson
- Austin Pets Alive!, Austin, TX 78703, USA; (N.T.H.); (M.K.F.); (E.P.J.); (E.S.A.)
| | - E. Susan Amirian
- Austin Pets Alive!, Austin, TX 78703, USA; (N.T.H.); (M.K.F.); (E.P.J.); (E.S.A.)
| | - Julie K. Levy
- Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA;
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15
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Anti-SU Antibody Responses in Client-Owned Cats Following Vaccination against Feline Leukaemia Virus with Two Inactivated Whole-Virus Vaccines (Fel-O-Vax ® Lv-K and Fel-O-Vax ® 5). Viruses 2021; 13:v13020240. [PMID: 33546485 PMCID: PMC7913631 DOI: 10.3390/v13020240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A field study undertaken in Australia compared the antibody responses induced in client-owned cats that had been vaccinated using two inactivated whole feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) vaccines, the monovalent vaccine Fel-O-Vax® Lv-K and the polyvalent vaccine Fel-O-Vax® 5. Serum samples from 428 FeLV-uninfected cats (118 FeLV-vaccinated and 310 FeLV-unvaccinated) were tested for anti-FeLV neutralising antibodies (NAb) using a live virus neutralisation assay to identify 378 FeLV-unexposed (NAb-negative) and 50 FeLV-exposed (NAb-positive; abortive infections) cats, following by anti-surface unit (SU) FeLV-A and FeLV-B antibody ELISA testing. An additional 42 FeLV-infected cats (28 presumptively regressively infected, 14 presumptively progressively infected) were also tested for anti-SU antibodies. NAb-positive cats displayed significantly higher anti-SU antibody ELISA responses compared to NAb-negative cats (p < 0.001). FeLV-unexposed cats (NAb-negative) that had been vaccinated less than 18 months after a previous FeLV vaccination using the monovalent vaccine (Fel-O-Vax® Lv-K) displayed higher anti-SU antibody ELISA responses than a comparable group vaccinated with the polyvalent vaccine (Fel-O-Vax® 5) (p < 0.001 for both anti-FeLV-A and FeLV-B SU antibody responses). This difference in anti-SU antibody responses between cats vaccinated with the monovalent or polyvalent vaccine, however, was not observed in cats that had been naturally exposed to FeLV (NAb-positive) (p = 0.33). It was postulated that vaccination with Fel-O-Vax® 5 primed the humoral response prior to FeLV exposure, such that antibody production increased when the animal was challenged, while vaccination with Fel-O-Vax® Lv-K induced an immediate preparatory antibody response that did not quantitatively increase after FeLV exposure. These results raise questions about the comparable vaccine efficacy of the different FeLV vaccine formulations and correlates of protection.
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Abstract
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus of domestic cats worldwide. Cats lacking strong FeLV-specific immunity and undergoing progressive infection commonly develop fatal FeLV-associated disease. Many aspects of FeLV infection pathogenesis have been elucidated, some during more recent years using molecular techniques. It is recommended that the FeLV status of every cat is known, since FeLV infection can influence the prognosis and clinical management of every sick cat. Moreover, knowledge of a cat's FeLV status is of epidemiological importance to prevent further spread of the infection. CLINICAL CHALLENGES Diagnosing FeLV infection remains challenging due to different outcomes of infection, which can vary over time depending on the balance between the virus and the host's immune system. Furthermore, testing for FeLV infection has become more refined over the years and now includes diagnostic assays for different viral and immunological parameters. Knowledge of FeLV infection pathogenesis, as well as the particulars of FeLV detection methods, is an important prerequisite for correct interpretation of any test results and accurate determination of a cat's FeLV status. AIMS The current review presents recent knowledge on FeLV pathogenesis, key features to be determined in FeLV infection, and frequently used FeLV detection methods, and their characteristics and interpretation. An algorithm for the diagnosis of FeLV infection in a single cat, developed by the European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases, is included, and FeLV testing in specific situations is addressed. As well as increasing awareness of this deadly infection in domestic cats, the aim is to contribute diagnostic expertise to allow veterinarians in practice to improve their recognition, and further reduce the prevalence, of FeLV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Prof, Dr med vet, FVH Professor of Laboratory Medicine, Director of Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Head of Clinical Laboratory and Centre for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Katrin Hartmann
- Prof, Dr med vet, Dr habil, Dip ECVIM-CA (Internal Medicine) Professor of Internal Medicine, Head of Clinic of Small Animal Medicine, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Germany
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17
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Hartmann K, Hofmann-Lehmann R. What's New in Feline Leukemia Virus Infection. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2020; 50:1013-1036. [PMID: 32680664 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2020.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus with global impact on the health of domestic cats that causes tumors (mainly lymphoma), bone marrow disorders, and immunosuppression. The importance of FeLV is underestimated due to complacency associated with previous decline in prevalence. However, with this comes lowered vigilance, which, along with potential for regressively infected cats to reactivate viremia and shed the virus or develop clinical signs, can pose a risk to feline health. This article summarizes knowledge on FeLV pathogenesis, courses of infection, and factors affecting prevalance, infection outcome, and development of FeLV-associated diseases, with special focus on regressive FeLV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Hartmann
- Clinic of Small Animal Medicine, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine LMU Munich, Veterinaerstrasse 13, Munich 80539, Germany.
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
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18
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Lockhart HL, Levy JK, Amirian ES, Hamman NT, Frenden MK. Outcome of cats referred to a specialized adoption program for feline leukemia virus-positive cats. J Feline Med Surg 2020; 22:1160-1167. [PMID: 32338565 PMCID: PMC7691564 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x20913359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Objectives The purpose of this retrospective study was to assess outcomes of cats referred to a specialized adoption program for feline leukemia virus (FeLV)-positive cats. Methods Cats referred to an FeLV-specific adoption program between January 2018 and July 2019 at an animal shelter in Austin, TX, USA, were first identified based on their putative FeLV status as reported by the referring shelter, rescue group, veterinarian or individual. Each cat was re-screened for FeLV upon admission and subsequently deemed infected or uninfected. Data on cat source, admission date, outcome date, outcome type, signalment and comorbidities at the time of admission were extracted from the shelter database. Outcomes were recorded up to 15 December 2019. Results In total, 801 cats suspected to be infected with FeLV were referred to the FeLV adoption program. Of these, 149 (18.6%) were ultimately deemed uninfected, and infection was confirmed in 652 (81.4%) cats. Adoption was the most common outcome for FeLV-infected cats (n = 514 cats; 78.8%), followed by euthanasia or death in care (n = 109; 16.7%). Upper respiratory infection (URI) was the most common comorbidity in FeLV-infected cats (n = 106; 16.3%) at the time of admission, which was not significantly different than URI in the cats that were deemed not to be infected with FeLV (n = 29; 19.5%). Conclusions and relevance This study demonstrated high national demand for a lifesaving option for cats diagnosed with FeLV. FeLV infections could not be confirmed in approximately one in five cats referred to the FeLV adoption program, a reminder of the risk behind basing the fate of a cat on a single positive test result. The majority of cats referred to the FeLV program were adopted, demonstrating that programs centered on adopter education and post-adoption support can create lifesaving outcomes for most FeLV-infected cats, despite uncertainty regarding their long-term prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather L Lockhart
- Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Julie K Levy
- Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - E Susan Amirian
- Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Austin Pets Alive!, Austin, TX, USA
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Little S, Levy J, Hartmann K, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Hosie M, Olah G, Denis KS. 2020 AAFP Feline Retrovirus Testing and Management Guidelines. J Feline Med Surg 2020; 22:5-30. [PMID: 31916872 PMCID: PMC11135720 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x19895940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infections are found in cats worldwide. Both infections are associated with a variety of clinical signs and can impact quality of life and longevity. SCOPE This document is an update of the 2008 American Association of Feline Practitioners' feline retrovirus management guidelines and represents current knowledge on pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of retrovirus infections in cats. TESTING AND INTERPRETATION Although vaccines are available for FeLV in many countries and for FIV in some countries, identification of infected cats remains an important factor for preventing new infections. The retrovirus status of every cat at risk of infection should be known. Cats should be tested as soon as possible after they are acquired, following exposure to an infected cat or a cat of unknown infection status, prior to vaccination against FeLV or FIV, and whenever clinical illness occurs. It might not be possible to determine a cat's infection status based on testing at a single point in time; repeat testing using different methods could be required. Although FeLV and FIV infections can be associated with clinical disease, some infected cats, especially those infected with FIV, can live for many years with good quality of life. MANAGEMENT OF INFECTED CATS There is a paucity of data evaluating treatments for infected cats, especially antiretroviral and immunomodulatory drugs. Management of infected cats is focused on effective preventive healthcare strategies, and prompt identification and treatment of illness, as well as limiting the spread of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julie Levy
- Charing Cross Cat Clinic, Brantford, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Glenn Olah
- Charing Cross Cat Clinic, Brantford, ON, Canada
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