Chelonian
Herpesvirus infections can be found in many different species of chelonians (turtles and tortoises, terrapins and sea turtles). In Chelonian, herpesviruses of the genus Testudo play an important role, it is highly contagious and animals should be routinely examined for infection before being introduced into a population.
Clinical signs in affected individuals include oral and nasal discharge, anorexia, and lethargy. Necrotic plaques on the tongue and oral mucosa are also typical.
So far, 4 different types of herpesvirus, testudinid herpesviruses (TeHV) 1 – 4 are known in tortoises. In Europe, especially TeHV-1 and TeHV-3 are found. TeHV-3 has a broad host range among tortoises and infections are usually associated with very high morbidity and mortality rates. TeHV-1 can mostly be detected in Russian tortoises (Testudo horsfieldii). These are often diseases of individual animals, since TeHV-1 has a considerably lower tendency than TeHV-3 to spread in the population. Individual cases of TeHV-2 (especially in desert tortoises) and TeHV-4 (in African tortoises) have been detected in Europe in recent years.
Intra vitam detection can be carried out using oral swabs. In dead animals, the tongue as well as liver, intestine, and possibly brain can be used for virus detection.
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Herpesviruses are most commonly associated with liver lesions in pond turtles. In these animals, oral swabs and liver samples can be used for virus detection.
In sea turtles, herpesviruses are associated with fibropapillomatosis. Virus can be detected in affected tissues by PCR.
Lizards
In lizards, herpesvirus infections have mostly been associated with oral lesions. Detection by PCR can be carried out using swabs from lesions as well as oral swabs. In dead animals, liver should also be tested.
Snakes
