Ovine Pulmonary Carcinoma, also known as Sheep Pulmonary Adenomatosis (SPA) or Jaagsiekte, is a contagious lung disease that primarily affects domestic sheep and goats. It is caused by the Jaagsiekte sheep retrovirus (JSRV), which is a type of retrovirus belonging to the genus Betaretrovirus.
The disease is characterized by the development of neoplastic nodules or tumors in the affected animal's lungs. These tumors progressively obstruct the airways, leading to respiratory distress and ultimately respiratory failure. Ovine Pulmonary Carcinoma typically affects adult animals, with a higher prevalence in older individuals.
Clinical signs often include persistent coughing, labored breathing, weight loss, and decreased exercise tolerance. These symptoms may gradually worsen over time, leading to a significant decline in the affected animal's health.
Ovine Pulmonary Carcinoma is primarily transmitted through respiratory secretions between infected and susceptible animals. The virus can also be transmitted vertically through infected mothers to their offspring. Although there is currently no cure for the disease, it is crucial to implement measures to prevent its spread, such as isolating infected animals and maintaining strict biosecurity protocols.
Overall, Ovine Pulmonary Carcinoma is a respiratory disease found in sheep and goats, caused by a retrovirus, and characterized by the development of tumors in the lungs, leading to respiratory distress and potential fatal consequences.
