Abstract

Enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL) is a chronic viral disease of cattle caused by the bovine leukaemia virus (BLV), a member of the genus Deltaretrovirus within the family Retroviridae. The virus affects lymphocytes, leading to malignant transformations and the formation of tumours in hematopoietic organs such as the bone marrow, spleen, and lymph nodes. Infection can be transmitted horizontally through blood, body fluids, and insects, as well as vertically via colostrum, milk, or during intrauterine development. Once infected, animals remain lifelong carriers, which facilitates the spread of the virus within herds. Proviral BLV DNA has also been detected in milk and meat products, raising concerns about a potential risk to humans. Diagnostic methods for EBL include serological tests (ELISA, AGID) and PCR. In the present study, 43 blood samples were analyzed using ELISA to detect antibodies against BLV. Statistical analysis indicated an approximately normal distribution of the results and confirmed the stability of the laboratory process. Additionally, an Ishikawa cause-and-effect diagram was created to identify factors influencing the spread of the disease, and a flowchart was developed to illustrate the laboratory diagnostic protocol for BLV detection. Effective BLV control requires strict biosecurity measures, regular monitoring, and segregation of infected animals. This summary integrates current knowledge on the epidemiology, diagnosis, control, and prevention of EBL, providing practical guidance for veterinary professionals.