Herpes-like Viral Dermatitis in a Beluga Whale (Delphinapterus leucas)

Abstract

Approximately 3.5 mo following its capture, a beluga whae (Delphinapterus leucas) developed focal pale gray skin lesions. These lesions persisted for at least 8 mo. A biopsy from one of these sites revealed epithelial intranuclear inclusions. Herpes-like viral particles were seen by transmission electron microscopy. The eventual regression of skin lesions and lack of other clinical signs suggest the virus was only mildly pathogenic in this animal.