Feline herpesvirus-1 (FeHV-1) in cats with ophthalmic problems: attempted propagation in CRFK cell lines

Abstract

Feline herpesvirus-1 (FeHV-1) is classified within the Varicellovirus genus and is frequently seen in cats. Ocular complications, such as conjunctivitis, keratitis, and corneal ulcers, are common and have the potential to result in latency and permanent visual loss if not appropriately diagnosed and monitored. This study aimed to isolate FeHV-1 from cats with ocular lesions using the CRFK cell line. This study included a total of ten cats that tested positive for FeHV-1 and showed symptoms, including ocular and nasal discharge (8/10), conjunctivitis (6/10), and keratitis (5/10). Conjunctival samples were collected and processed for nucleic acid extraction. The CRFK cell line was propagated, and all positive samples were inoculated in 6-well plates. Surprisingly, no CPE was observed in the CRFK cell cultures during the observation period. Following post-inoculation in cell culture, the PCR analysis conducted on the supernatants obtained from the cultures found negative for FeHV-1. This study points out the challenges faced in isolating FeHV-1 in the CRFK from ocular samples of naturally infected cats. This highlights the requirement for future comprehensive in vitro studies to enhance the efficacy of FeHV-1 isolation techniques and explore potential approaches for FeHV-1 diagnosis.