Cinomose canina: Revisão de literatura

Abstract

Canine distemper is an infectious disease caused by an RNA virus of the genus Morbillivirus. It is a disease of global importance and considered the second leading cause of death among dogs, losing only to Rabies. The virus is highly immunosuppressive and leads to severe neurological and systemic diseases. Affects mainly unvaccinated dogs or have undergone vaccines with incomplete doses, colostrum with low antibody level or without title, immunosuppression, besides history of contact with infected animals. Viral transmission occurs by aerosols and infectious droplets from excretions and body secretions of infected animals. Poor immune response renders clinical manifestations characterized by gastroenteric, eye, skin, respiratory and neurological disorders. The diagnosis occurs mainly through the animal’s clinical history, clinical examination and laboratory tests from body secretions or tissues. There are no specific treatment protocols for distemper; however, the use of symptomatic and supportive therapy is essential. Antivirals have been considered as a possible treatment but the results are not promising, considering that the general state of the animal is aggravated by the drug side effects. Many vaccine brands against distemper virus are in the market, but have limited effectiveness since even vaccinated animals can become ill. Taking into consideration all the information available, this study aimed to carry out an assessment and compilation of data from many literature sources in order to make the information about canine distemper virus more comprehensive.