BOVINE PAPILLOMATOSIS (WARTS)

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Causative Agent(s)

This is caused by an infectious and contagious Bovine papillomatosis virus (BPV). There are at least 6 strains of BPV each of which has a specific predilection site on the cow they affect. They are BPV-1, BVP-2, BV|PV-3, BPV-4, BPV-5 and BPV-6.

Clinical Presentation and Epidemiology

Warts are usually dry white to tan colour growth that protrude from the skin and may have horny surface. They usually appear about 2 months after exposure and may last up to a year. Infections of papillomatosis are a self-limiting disease, although the duration of warts varies considerably.

In cattle, cutaneous warts are most common in the young animal (under 2 years). They are commonly found on the head, neck, shoulder and occasionally on the back and abdomen but may also occur in more sensitive areas like the teat, vaginal mucosa, vulva or penis where they cause pain, disfigurement, infection of the penis of young bull and dystocia in the heifers. The extent and duration of the lesion depends on the strain of virus, area affected and the degree of susceptibility.

Most warts appear as epidermal proliferations and they have a keratotic surface resembling a cauliflower. Some warts involve the dermal fibroblasts and keratinocytes and appear as papulonodular with a warty surface. Chronically, immunosuppressed animal may develop extensive papillomatosis in the upper gastrointestinal tract, which can cause difficulties with eating and breathing.

Diagnostic Consideration

Histological examination of biopsied material. Confirmation of papillomavirus aetiology is by immunohistochemistry

Management and Treatment
  • Removal of large-sized wart by manual excision
  • Topical antiseptic application. A wound spray should be applied to prevent problems with flies.
  • Ivermectin 2 mg/kg SQ Stat (repeat after 14days)

 

Warts usually shrink and drop off after a few months. Proper disinfection of tack, tagging pliers, and tattooing instruments will prevent the spread of the wart virus. Control of ectoparasite is also recommended. Vaccination should be done in calves at 4-6wks of age and repeated within 4-6wks and at one year of age.