Feline Leukemia Virus Infection

Front

What are the associated disorders caused by FeLV?

Back

Immunosuppression leading to secondary infections, neoplasia (mainly lymphoma), myelosuppression, neurologic disorders, infertility, and fading kitten syndrome.

Front

What are the major FeLV subgroups?

Back

Subgroups A, B, and C. Subgroup A occurs in all infected cats, B is common and associated with neoplasia, and C is rare and associated with nonregenerative anemia.

Front

How is FeLV infection often diagnosed?

Back

Incidentally during yearly or routine new-cat screening, often before clinical signs develop.

Front

What are some clinical signs of FeLV infection?

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Signs due to secondary infections (e.g., nasal or ocular discharge), anemia or cancer-related signs like weakness, lethargy, or inappetence.

Front

What are some physical exam findings in FeLV-infected cats?

Back

Lymphadenopathy, gingivostomatitis, signs of opportunistic infection, dyspnea, diarrhea, vomiting, icterus, pallor, hemorrhage, and neurologic deficits.

Front

What is the etiology of FeLV?

Back

Oncornavirus (RNA virus) of the family Retroviridae, leading to lifelong infection with no cure.

Front

What are the possible outcomes of FeLV infection?

Back

Abortive infection, regressive infection, and progressive infection.

Front

How is progressive FeLV infection diagnosed?

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By detection of FeLV antigen by ELISA or other immunochromatography tests.

Front

How is regressive FeLV infection diagnosed?

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Through PCR to detect integrated FeLV provirus in an ELISA-negative cat.

Front

How is abortive FeLV infection diagnosed?

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Through detection of antibodies in FeLV antigen-negative, PCR-negative cats.