Avian retroviruses

Abstract

Avian leukosis virus (ALV) and reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV) are the most common naturally occurring avian retroviruses associated with neoplastic disease conditions in domesticated poultry. Avian leukosis virus infects primarily chickens, whereas REV infects chickens, turkeys, and other avian species. In addition to causing tumors, both ALV and REV can reduce productivity and induce immunosuppression and other production problems in affected flocks.