What is the difference between lumpy skin disease and pseudo-lumpy skin disease?

 

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) and pseudo-lumpy skin disease (PLSD) are two viral infections that affect cattle. While both diseases present with similar clinical signs, they are caused by different viruses and have different modes of transmission, diagnosis, and management. In this article, we will explore the differences between LSD and PLSD.

Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD)

Lumpy skin disease is a highly infectious viral disease that affects cattle, primarily in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. It is caused by a virus belonging to the Capripoxvirus genus, which is a member of the Poxviridae family. The virus is transmitted mechanically by biting insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, and flies. It can also be spread by direct contact with infected animals or contaminated equipment, such as needles or ear tags.

Clinical signs of LSD typically start with fever, followed by the formation of nodules or lumps on the skin, which may vary in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. These nodules can appear anywhere on the body, including the head, neck, limbs, and genitals. In severe cases, the nodules can become confluent, resulting in extensive swelling of the affected areas. Other clinical signs include loss of appetite, decreased milk production, and weight loss.

Diagnosis of LSD is based on clinical signs, virus isolation, and serological tests. Treatment is primarily supportive, with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to reduce fever and inflammation. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent LSD, with attenuated or inactivated vaccines available in some countries.

Pseudo-Lumpy Skin Disease (PLSD)

Pseudo-lumpy skin disease is a viral disease that affects cattle, primarily in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It is caused by the bovine papular stomatitis virus (BPSV), a member of the Papillomaviridae family. The virus is transmitted mechanically by biting insects, such as mosquitoes, ticks, and flies, and can also be spread by direct contact with infected animals or contaminated equipment.

Clinical signs of PLSD are similar to those of LSD and include fever and the formation of nodules or lumps on the skin. However, the nodules in PLSD are smaller and more discrete than those in LSD and typically appear on the head, neck, and udder. The nodules in PLSD are usually painless and do not cause significant swelling or discomfort. Other clinical signs include loss of appetite, decreased milk production, and weight loss.

Diagnosis of PLSD is based on clinical signs, virus isolation, and serological tests. Treatment is primarily supportive, with NSAIDs used to reduce fever and inflammation. There is no specific vaccine for PLSD, but cross-protection has been reported with some LSD vaccines.

In conclusion, LSD and PLSD are two viral diseases that affect cattle and present with similar clinical signs. LSD is caused by a Capripoxvirus and is primarily transmitted by biting insects, while PLSD is caused by the BPSV and is transmitted mechanically by biting insects and direct contact. While treatment is supportive for both diseases, vaccination is the most effective way to prevent LSD, while cross-protection has been reported with some LSD vaccines for PLSD. It is important for farmers and veterinarians to differentiate between these diseases to implement effective control measures and prevent the spread of infection.