In:
Veterinary Medicine and Science, Wiley, Vol. 5, No. 3 ( 2019-08), p. 372-378
Abstract:
Background: Equine hepacivirus (Eq HV ) in equids represents the closest homologue to hepatitis C virus ( HCV ) infecting humans. A majority of HCV infected patients develop a chronic course of infection leading to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and liver failure. However, in horses mostly transient mild subclinical infections are reported for Eq HV to date. Objectives: Eq HV can be involved in chronic liver diseases of horses. Methods: Biochemical parameters in serum samples were measured. Viral load was determined using qPCR . Next generation sequencing ( NGS ) of serum was performed. Liver tissue was stained with haematoxylin and eosin and analysed for viral RNA with fluorescent in situ ‐hybridization. Results: The horse showed symptoms of severe hepatopathy and was chronically infected with Eq HV . Viral RNA was detectable in the liver during disease. To rule out other infectious agents NGS was performed and showed the highest abundance for Eq HV . The identified virus sequence was similar to other circulating equine hepaciviruses. Conclusions: Eq HV can be associated with liver disease in horses. Whether it causes the disease or contributes in a multifactorial manner needs further investigation.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
2053-1095
,
2053-1095
Language:
English
Publisher:
Wiley
Publication Date:
2019
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2819409-3
