Bovine Leukemia Virus (BLV) is an infectious retrovirus that primarily affects cattle. It belongs to the family of Retroviridae and genus Deltaretrovirus. The virus is responsible for causing Bovine Leukosis, also known as Bovine Lymphosarcoma, a neoplastic disease characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of white blood cells, specifically B lymphocytes.
BLV is transmitted through the exchange of infected bodily fluids, primarily through the transfer of infected blood cells from one animal to another, such as during blood transfusion, through insect vectors like ticks, and from an infected mother to its calf via placenta or milk. The virus can also be passed through close contact, particularly through the use of contaminated needles or surgical instruments.
Once the virus enters the bloodstream of a susceptible host, it infects B lymphocytes and integrates its genetic material into the host's DNA. Infected animals may remain asymptomatic carriers or may develop different clinical forms of Bovine Leukosis, including persistent lymphocytosis, which is characterized by higher levels of white blood cells, or lymphosarcoma, which results in the formation of tumors in various organs and tissues.
The economic impact of BLV on the cattle industry is significant, as it can lead to reduced milk production, weight loss, increased susceptibility to other diseases, and decreased fertility. Diagnosis of BLV is commonly achieved through blood tests, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and control measures mainly revolve around preventing its spread through herd management practices, culling, and vaccination.
In conclusion, Bovine Leukemia Virus is an infectious retrovirus that causes Bovine Leukosis in cattle, a disease characterized by the
