What is lumpy skin?

Lumpy skin disease

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is an infectious disease of cattle caused by a virus of the Postmeridian family, also known as Nettling virus. The disease is characterized by fever, enlarged superficial lymph nodes, and multiple nodules (2–5 cm in diameter) on the skin and mucous membranes (including those of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts). Affected cattle may also develop swelling in their limbs and exhibit lameness.

Lumpy skin disease

The virus has important economic implications because the skin of infected animals is permanently damaged, reducing the commercial value of their fur. Additionally, the disease often causes chronic weakness, reduced milk production, poor growth, infertility, miscarriage, and sometimes death. The onset of fever is about a week after infection with the virus. This initial fever may exceed 41°C and may persist for up to a week. At this time, all superficial lymph nodes are enlarged. 

Nodules, which characterize the disease, appear seven to nineteen days after inoculation with the virus. Concomitant with the appearance of nodules, the discharge from the eyes and nose becomes mucopurulent. Nodular lesions involve the dermis and epidermis, but may also spread to the underlying subcutaneous tissues or muscles. These lesions, found all over the body (but especially on the head, neck, udder, scrotum, vulva, and perineum), may be either well circumscribed or confluent. Coetaneous lesions may resolve rapidly or may persist as hard nodules. 

Lesions can also be isolated, deep ulcers are filled with granulation tissue and are often congested. In the early stages of nodules, they are creamy gray to white on cut, and may secrete serum. After about two weeks, a cone-shaped central area of necrotic material may appear within the nodules. Additionally, nodules of the eyes, nose, mouth, rectum, nipples, and genital mucosa become ulcerated, facilitating transmission of the virus. In mild cases of LSD, the clinical signs and lesions are often confused with bovine herpes virus 2 (BHV-2), which in turn is called pseudo lymphatic skin disease. 

However, lesions associated with BHV-2 infection are more superficial. BHV-2 also has a shorter course and is lighter than LSD. Electronic microscop can be used to differentiate between the two infections. It is important to note that isolation of BHV-2 or its detection in negatively stained biopsy specimens is possible only about one week after the development of skin lesions.

Causes:

Lumpy skin is a viral disease that affects cattle. It is spread by blood-sucking insects, such as certain species of flies and mosquitoes, or ticks. It causes fever, skin nodules and can even lead to death, especially in animals that have not been previously exposed to the virus.

Signs and symptoms:

Scabies form in the center of the nodules, which then slough off, leaving large holes that can become infected. Inflammation of the limbs, brisket and genitals may occur. Watery eyes. Increased nasal and salivary secretions.

Presentations:

Control and prevention of lumpy skin disease depends on four strategies – movement control (quarantine), vaccination, cooling campaigns and management strategies. Specific national control plans vary between countries and relevant authorities and veterinarians and should be consulted. For more Articles about medical click here