Fibropapilomatosis in sea turtles
Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31533/pubvet.v20n3e1920Keywords:
Coastal ecosystems, ecosystem health, environmental factorsAbstract
Fibropapillomatosis is a multifactorial condition associated with Chelonid herpesvirus 5, whose clinical expression appears to be modulated by adverse environmental conditions, particularly in coastal ecosystems impacted by anthropogenic activities. The methodology was based on a bibliographic review of national and international studies addressing epidemiological, clinical, histopathological, and environmental aspects related to fibropapillomatosis. The results indicate higher prevalence and severity of the disease in degraded coastal areas characterized by pollution, eutrophication, low water circulation, and alterations in benthic communities. Evidence suggests that exposure to natural biotoxins, such as okadaic acid produced by benthic dinoflagellates, as well as the bioaccumulation of inorganic chemical contaminants and the reduction of essential elements, such as selenium, may promote physiological stress and immunosuppression, contributing to the progression of tumor lesions. In addition, fibropapillomatosis presents spatial and temporal distribution patterns consistent with intensified environmental degradation processes over recent decades, reinforcing its potential as an indicator of coastal ecosystem health. It is concluded that fibropapillomatosis should be understood as the result of interactions among the infectious agent, the host, and the environment, highlighting the importance of integrated environmental monitoring and habitat conservation strategies to mitigate the disease and protect marine turtle populations.
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