Review of porcine circovirus 3–associated lesions in swine: Challenges and advances in diagnostics

Abstract

Porcine circovirus 3 (PCV3) is a recently identified pathogen in swine populations. It is considered a ubiquitous virus and is frequently associated with subclinical infections throughout various stages of production. PCV3 is detectable in diverse tissues, blood, and secretions, indicating systemic dissemination and potential for both vertical and horizontal transmission. PCV3 has been implicated in reproductive and postnatal diseases collectively named as PCV3-associated diseases (PCV3-AD). Clinically, PCV3-AD encompasses reproductive disorders such as mummified fetuses, stillbirths, and weak neonates, alongside postnatal manifestations including anorexia, weight loss, and progressive wasting. Histopathologically, PCV3-AD is primarily defined by systemic nonsuppurative periarteritis and arteritis that are observed across multiple tissues, particularly within the heart, mesenteric arterial plexus, and kidneys. Despite the broad tissue tropism and frequent detection of viral nucleic acids within affected vascular and parenchymal structures, the precise mechanisms underpinning PCV3 pathogenesis remain poorly understood. Diagnosis of PCV3-AD relies on the confluence of characteristic clinical signs, compatible histopathological findings, and the in situ detection of the virus within lesions. However, the true prevalence of PCV3-AD under field conditions is likely underestimated due to the limited availability and high costs associated with laboratory techniques for definitive viral detection. This review seeks to consolidate and interpret clinical and pathological evidence indicative of PCV3-AD while addressing the critical diagnostic challenges faced by veterinary pathologists. Enhanced understanding of the disease’s clinical-pathological correlations and diagnostic approaches is essential to accurately assess its impact on swine health and production.