A highly contagious viral disease of chickens, caused by a herpesvirus, that causes tumors in nerves and internal organs, paralysis and death, and that was one of the first cancers of any species shown to be prevented by a vaccine. Widespread vaccination since the 1970s has controlled the disease in commercial poultry, though the virus continues to evolve toward greater virulence, requiring periodic development of more effective vaccines.
Facts
Connections
Associated With
Chicken, Livestock Marek's disease is a highly contagious herpesvirus-caused lymphoma disease of chickens.
Sources
1. Marek's Disease (Wikipedia)
Wikimedia FoundationOpening definition paragraph
Marek's disease is a highly contagious viral neoplastic disease in chickens. It is named after József Marek, a Hungarian veterinarian who described it in 1907. Marek's disease is caused by an alphaherpesvirus commonly known as "Marek's disease virus" (MDV). The disease is characterized by the presence of T cell lymphoma as well as infiltration of nerves and organs by lymphocytes. Viruses related to MDV appear to be benign and can be used as vaccine strains to prevent Marek's disease.
lead description
A highly contagious viral disease of chickens, caused by a herpesvirus, that causes tumors in nerves and internal organs, paralysis and death, and that was one of the first cancers of any species shown to be prevented by a vaccine.
View the Source Reader Challenges (0)
No disputes yet. Spotted an error or a better source? Open the first one.
Sign in to dispute this or suggest a correction.