Detection of herpesvirus DNA in Arctic foxes (Vulpes lagopus; syn. Alopex lagopus) with fatal encephalitis

Res Vet Sci. 2012 Jun;92(3):509-11. doi: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2011.04.007. Epub 2011 May 4.

Abstract

A captive breeding programme for the Fennoscandian Arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus; syn. Alopex lagopus) failed due to fatal encephalitis. The aim of this study was to identify the causative agent. Viral nucleic acid was detected by PCR and in situ hybridization in the brain of affected foxes. The results suggest that a herpesvirus might be the causative agent. Whether this infection also occurs in free-living Arctic foxes is unknown.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • DNA, Viral / isolation & purification*
  • Encephalitis, Viral / veterinary*
  • Encephalitis, Viral / virology
  • Female
  • Foxes*
  • Herpesviridae / genetics*
  • Herpesviridae / isolation & purification*
  • Herpesviridae Infections / veterinary*
  • Herpesviridae Infections / virology
  • In Situ Hybridization / veterinary
  • Male
  • Phylogeny
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction / veterinary

Substances

  • DNA, Viral