Marek’s Disease

Marek’s disease (MD) is a contagious and oncogenic herpesvirus that causes immunosuppression and tumors in chickens. While there have been several reports of lymphomas (MD-like conditions) in turkeys, this species has received less attention in relation to the disease. Recent studies have shown that Marek’s disease virus (MDV) has been found in lymphomatous tumors in commercial turkeys in several countries. The pathogenesis of MDV infection in turkeys is still not fully understood, and further research is needed. Although the herpesvirus of turkey (HVT) vaccine did not protect turkeys from challenges with a virulent MDV, the Rispens strain proved effective, emphasizing the need for further evaluation of MDV vaccines. This review aims to describe the history and current situation of MD in turkeys, including its clinical presentation and diagnostic methods in turkeys.