Cutaneous tumor-like lesions associated with poxvirus infection in laughing doves (Streptopelia senegalensis)

Cutaneous, tumor-like nodules were observed on the digits and distal wings in 6 of 52 laughing doves (Streptopelia senegalensis) kept in an aviary. The nodules were surgically removed, and the birds were treated postoperatively with tetracycline. Histopathologic examination of the resected tissue revealed eosinophilic intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies associated with a heavy infiltration of heterophils, lymphocytes, and fewer plasma cells. Electron microscopy revealed pox virions. No additional cases were reported after the birds were surgically treated and quarantined from the remainder of the aviary. The location of lesions on the digits and distal wing tips is unusual for poxvirus. To our knowledge, infection with poxvirus has not previously been diagnosed or reported in wild birds in the Sultanate of Oman.