Viruses Genomes - ALEUTIAN MINK DISEASE VIRUS

Aleutian mink disease virus (AMDV) is the causative agent of Aleutian disease (AD), which primarily affects all breeds of wild and farmed mink ferrets, and can infect related animals such as raccoons, weasels, fishers, martens, and striped skunks. The disease is common in mink farms all over the world, causing high economic losses.

ADV got it's name from the strain of mink (Aleutian) in which the virus was first detected. There are several strains of ADV, and it is believed that the different strains of virus may vary in the severity of disease that they cause. The virus is unusual in that it elicits a strong immune response (production of antibodies) from the animal, but the antibodies produced do not neutralise the virus. Instead, antibodies are produced (sometimes in massive amounts), which can form complexes that are deposited in tissues, producing inflammation that is ultimately responsible for the progression of the disease. In addition, certain immune system cells (plasmacytes and lymphocytes) accumulate in tissues. It is actually the immune response to the virus that causes the symptoms rather than the virus directly. This is why vaccination isn't feasible at this point, because it could elicit a similar immune response.

Transmission can be direct via faeces, urine, saliva or blood, and also through the placenta from a jill to her kits. Air transmission is also possible, as is transmission through contact with contaminated surfaces.

ADV has often been described as a "wasting disease" characterised by chronic (long term) weight loss. A common manifestation is weakness or paralysis due to spinal cord damage, which progresses from the hind end up to the front legs. Other signs include lethargy, tarry stools (due to blood in the stool), and tremors. Occasionally the disease may cause sudden death. Organs commonly affected include the kidneys and liver.

There is currently no effective vaccine or cure for ADV.

References
http://jcm.asm.org/cgi/content/full/37/12/4145
http://exoticpets.about.com/cs/ferrets/a/aleutiandisease.htm