Ibex-associated malignant catarrhal fever in a bongo antelope (Tragelaphus euryceros)

J Zoo Wildl Med. 2007 Sep;38(3):460-4. doi: 10.1638/06-046.1.

Abstract

A 4-yr-old male bongo antelope (Tragelaphus euryceros) died after an acute clinical course involving a febrile illness, anorexia, lethargy, minor oculonasal discharge, and diarrhea. Histologic lesions were compatible with malignant catarrhal fever (MCF). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) revealed an amplified region of a herpesviral DNA polymerase gene sequence nearly identical to that of a MCF virus previously identified in Nubian ibex (Capra nubiana). The bongo had been housed across from an exhibit containing Nubian ibex that tested positive for MCF viral antibodies by competitive inhibition enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Further testing of the zoo's ibex via PCR also revealed viral DNA sequences nearly identical to those found in the bongo's tissues.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Animals, Zoo
  • Antelopes*
  • DNA, Viral / analysis
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Male
  • Malignant Catarrh / diagnosis*
  • Malignant Catarrh / pathology
  • Malignant Catarrh / transmission
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction / methods
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction / veterinary

Substances

  • DNA, Viral