Two cases of FeLV-associated dermatoses.

Abstract

Two cases of feline leukaemia virus (FeLV)-associated dermatosis are described. The first cat was affected by an ulcerative dermatitis identified as a giant-cell dermatosis. The second case was a cutaneous lymphoma. In both cases, FeLV antigens and FeLV genome were demonstrated in the affected skin immunologically and with polymerase chain reaction, respectively. The first case suggests that, like other retroviruses, at least some strains of FeLV can induce syncytium formation. As FeLV antigens and genome were demonstrated in a serologically negative cat, the second case suggests that focal skin FeLV replication may occur. FeLV-associated dermatoses are rare skin conditions that may be under-diagnosed.