The porcine circovirus-2 (PCV2) is the main agent responsible for porcine circovirus associated diseases (PCVAD). Few studies have been done regarding PCV2 infection in other species. The purpose of this study was to investigate the occurrence of PCV2 infection in the peridomestic rodent species Mus musculus and Rattus rattus on commercial pig farms in Brazil. Immunohistochemistry assay demonstrated PCV2 in the spleen, lung and kidney. Viral DNA was detected in tissues by nested PCR assay. Partial sequences of PCV2 genomes detected in the rodents had strong identity with gene sequences of PCV2 isolates from pigs. These results show that the studied peridomestic rodent species can be naturally infected by PCV2. However, further studies are needed to confirm PCV2 transmission from rodents to pigs.

Aspectos radiográficos de periostite ossificante em metatarso de vaca Holandesa

Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) is currently considered an important etiologic agent of swine and its infection has potentially serious economic impact on the swine industry worldwide. This virus is frequently associated with postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS), and also with other clinical conditions such as porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome (PDNS), late-term abortions, reproductive failure in sows, proliferative and necrotizing pneumonia and congenital tremors. The term porcine circovirus-associated disease (PCVAD) is currently used to refer to any of these diseases when they are associated with PCV2 infection. The PCV2 was recognized as a pathogen in 1997, and many questions regarding its biology and pathogenesis remain unanswered. Currently, some studies have shown the production of new vaccine candidates and field efficacy testing of commercial vaccines. This review discusses some major points concerned with immunopathogenesis and vaccines for PCV2 infection

Brazilian pig population is made up of several naturalized breeds; among them the Piau breed is known for its rusticity and large fat stores. The naturalized breeds, in comparison with