Marek's Disease
Marek's Disease Marek's Disease is a highly contagious viral disease that affects chickens. It is caused by an alphaherpesvirus known as Marek's disease virus (MDV). The disease is named after J zsef Marek, a Hungarian veterinarian who first described the condition in 1907.
Virology[edit | edit source]
Marek's Disease is caused by a herpesvirus, specifically an alphaherpesvirus. The virus is classified into three serotypes:
- Serotype 1: Oncogenic strains that cause the disease.
- Serotype 2: Non-oncogenic strains found in chickens.
- Serotype 3: Non-oncogenic strains found in turkeys, also known as the herpesvirus of turkeys (HVT).
The virus is highly contagious and spreads through feather dander, dust, and other secretions from infected birds.
Clinical Signs[edit | edit source]
The clinical signs of Marek's Disease can vary, but they often include:
- Paralysis of the legs, wings, and neck
- Weight loss
- Vision impairment
- Skin lesions
- Tumors in various organs
The disease can manifest in different forms, including the classical form with paralysis and the visceral form with tumors in internal organs.
Pathogenesis[edit | edit source]
The pathogenesis of Marek's Disease involves several stages: 1. Infection: The virus enters the host through the respiratory tract. 2. Latency: The virus establishes latency in the host's lymphoid tissues. 3. Reactivation: Under certain conditions, the virus reactivates, leading to the proliferation of infected cells. 4. Tumor Formation: The virus causes transformation of T lymphocytes, leading to tumor formation.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of Marek's Disease is based on clinical signs, histopathological examination, and detection of the virus through PCR or serological tests.
Prevention and Control[edit | edit source]
Prevention of Marek's Disease primarily involves vaccination. The following vaccines are commonly used:
- HVT Vaccine: Derived from the herpesvirus of turkeys.
- Bivalent Vaccines: Contain both HVT and serotype 2 strains.
- Rispens CVI988: A highly effective vaccine derived from an attenuated serotype 1 strain.
Biosecurity measures, such as maintaining clean environments and reducing stress in flocks, are also important in controlling the spread of the disease.
Epidemiology[edit | edit source]
Marek's Disease is found worldwide and affects chickens of all ages, though young birds are most susceptible. The disease can lead to significant economic losses in the poultry industry due to mortality and decreased productivity.
Research and Developments[edit | edit source]
Ongoing research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of MDV pathogenesis, improving vaccine efficacy, and developing new strategies for disease control.
See Also[edit | edit source]
- Avian Diseases
- Herpesviruses
- Poultry Health
- Marek, J. (1907). "A new infectious disease of chickens". *Journal of Veterinary Science*.
- Witter, R. L. (1997). "Marek's disease: a model for herpesvirus oncology". *Advances in Cancer Research*.
NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]
Marek's Disease is a rare disease.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
