jännevauriot

Jännevauriot, also known as Polymyositis or Dermatomyositis-like lesions, is a rare skin condition affecting reindeer and other cervid species. The exact cause of the disease is still unknown, but it is believed to be related to genetic factors and maladaptive immune responses.

The condition is characterized by the formation of white or pinkish lesions on the skin of the legs, particularly on the hocks and near the joints. These lesions can lead to skin thickening, scarring, and eventually, significant mobility impairment in affected reindeer.

Jännevauriot was first described in the 1970s among Finnish reindeer herds. Since then, reports of the disease have emerged from other countries, including Sweden, Norway, and Scotland. The condition appears to be relatively rare, affecting only a small percentage of reindeer populations.

Reindeer with jännevauriot are often asymptomatic, meaning they do not show obvious signs of illness. However, in advanced cases, affected reindeer may exhibit signs of discomfort, lameness, and weight loss. Diagnosis of jännevauriot is based on clinical examination, skin biopsy, and histochemical analysis.

There is no widely accepted treatment for jännevauriot, although some studies suggest that immunomodulatory therapy may be beneficial in alleviating symptoms. Management of the disease typically involves controlling affected reindeer's movement and reducing the risk of infection. Efforts are ongoing to understand the etiology and develop effective treatments for this enigmatic condition affecting reindeer worldwide.