Leucemia viral felina – Uma Revisão da Literatura

Abstract

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is an important pathogen that affects domestic cats. It can cause a variety of health problems, including immunosuppression, immunodeficiency, anemia, and cancer. Genetic variations of FeLV can influence the severity of the infection and the feline's response to the virus. 

There are different subtypes of FeLV, and these subtypes may have characteristics that affect the virus's virulence and ability to cause disease. In addition, the cat's immune response also plays a crucial role in the severity of the infection. Younger cats or those with compromised immune systems may have a higher risk of developing severe illness after infection (CRIVELLENT; CRIVELLENT, 2015).

Thus, in view of the importance of feline viral leukemia, its consequences for the health of domestic cats and its incidence, a literature review will be carried out in the present work in order to gather information for a greater exploration of knowledge about this disease (LEVY, 2016).

FeLV (feline leukemia virus) belongs to the family Retroviridae, subfamily Onconavidae, and the genus Gammaretrovirus. Among retroviruses, there are exogenous viruses, such as FeLV, which are external and pathogenic viruses, and endogenous viruses, which are inherited and non-pathogenic. The latter consist of proviral DNA sequences inserted into the cell genome, being genetically transmitted without causing active infections (NEIL, 2008).

FeLV is an encapsulated virus, with short spicules on the membrane and a round-shaped electron-dense nucleus. In addition, it has a lipoprotein envelope and genetic material composed of single-stranded RNA. The FeLV virion has a diameter ranging from 80 to 100 nm (MACLACHLAN; DUBOVI, 2011).

Domiciled cats had a higher infection rate compared to shelter cats. Among domiciled cats, those with access to the street had a higher infection rate than those who did not. Adult cats had a higher infection rate compared to youngsters. In addition, non-neutered cats had a higher infection rate than neutered cats (Levy et al., 2008). It emphasizes the importance of practices such as castration, control of access to the external environment and vaccination as strategies to reduce the prevalence and impact of FeLV (Levy et al., 2008).

The main form of transmission is through contact with saliva and nasal secretions of infected cats, feeders and drinkers, which serve as a source of contamination. Puppies can be contaminated through the mother's care, transplacental route, or milk (Levy et al., 2008).

Feline viral leukemia is a disease that requires a lot of care in different aspects, such as the evaluation of the diversity of nonspecific clinical signs. In addition, it is necessary to pay attention to the performance and interpretation of the results of serological tests and other available tests so that, in this way, there is a correct diagnosis, and it must be confirmed if the cat is or will be persistently infected.