Open AccessChronic equine hepacivirus infection in an adult gelding with severe hepatopathy
Author(s) -
Tegtmeyer Birthe,
Echelmeyer Julia,
Pfankuche Vanessa M.,
Puff Christina,
Todt Daniel,
Fischer Nicole,
Durham Andy,
Feige Karsten,
Baumgärtner Wolfgang,
Steinmann Eike,
Cavalleri JessikaM. V.
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
veterinary medicine and science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.485
H-Index - 11
ISSN - 2053-1095
DOI - 10.1002/vms3.181
Subject(s) - subclinical infection , cirrhosis , liver disease , viral load , horse , virology , hepatitis c virus , virus , chronic liver disease , hepacivirus , biology , medicine , pathology , paleontology
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.