Enzootic Intranasal Tumour of Goats in Italy

Abstract
Summary: An outbreak of enzootic intranasal tumour (EIT) in a goat herd in Central Italy is described. From October 1990 to September 1992 41 tumors were diagnosed in goats ranging in age from 6 months to 6 years and of both the Alpine and Saanen breeds. Clinically the affected goats showed nasal discharge, facial swelling, sneezing and snoring respiration and weight loss.Post‐mortem examinations revealed uni‐ or bilateral tumours of the olfactory mucous membrane. The neoplasms were classified as low grade adenocarcinomas. Ultrastructurally, retrovirus‐like particles were observed in 10/10 tumours examined.Epidemiological and ultrastructural findings strongly suggest a viral aetiology for intranasal enzootic adenocarcinoma in the goats examined.