Feline Sarcoma Viruses (FeSV) are a group of retroviruses that infect cats and are known to cause aggressive tumors called sarcomas. These viruses belong to the Retroviridae family and fall under the genus Gammaretrovirus. FeSVs are transmitted through direct contact with infected cats, primarily through bites, scratches, or intimate social grooming behaviors.
FeSVs primarily target the feline cells of the immune system, specifically the T-lymphocytes and macrophages. Once inside the host's cells, the virus hijacks the cellular machinery to replicate and spread throughout the body. Over time, FeSV can induce the development of sarcomas at the site of viral infection or even in distant tissues, similar to other retroviruses.
Feline sarcomas caused by FeSVs are highly invasive and rapidly growing tumors that can metastasize to different organs of the body, leading to severe health complications. Common clinical signs associated with FeSV-induced sarcomas include the formation of firm, irregularly shaped masses beneath the skin, ulceration, inflammation, and pain.
Diagnosing FeSV infection and associated sarcomas often involves a combination of physical examination, imaging techniques, biopsy, and laboratory investigation to detect the presence of viral genetic material or specific antibodies. Treatment options for FeSV-associated sarcomas mainly revolve around surgical removal of the tumor masses, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. However, the prognosis for cats diagnosed with FeSV-induced sarcomas is generally poor due to the aggressive nature of the tumors and their potential for metastasis.
