LCD
Viral
🟢 Mild
Lymphocystis Disease
🦠 Lymphocystivirus (LCDV) · Iridoviridae
📋 Overview
Lymphocystis is one of the most recognisable and widespread fish viral diseases. Infected fibroblast cells become massively enlarged (up to 1000× normal volume), forming distinctive cauliflower-like nodules. Mortality is generally low but the disfiguring lesions reduce market value in aquaculture and affect ornamental fish significantly.
📊 Key Facts
Causative Agent
Lymphocystivirus (LCDV)
Geographic Range
Worldwide, >150 host species
Transmission Routes
Water-borne, through skin wounds
Primary Host
Flounder, perch, pike, many ornamental fish
Treatment
⚠ Supportive only
Vaccine
✗ None / Experimental
🩺 Clinical Signs
White, grey or pink wart-like nodules on skin, fins, and occasionally gills; lesions may coalesce; fish may become lethargic.
🔬 Symptoms
🔬
Wart-like skin nodules
Integumentary Chronic
🔬
Fin deformity
Integumentary Chronic
🧪 Diagnosis
Clinical signs, histopathology (giant hypertrophied cells with basophilic inclusion bodies), PCR.
💊 Treatment
ℹ️ Treatment options are supportive. Consult a qualified fish health professional.
No effective antiviral. Remove infected fish. Lesions may resolve spontaneously over weeks to months.
🛡️ Prevention
ℹ️ Prevention is the most effective strategy for managing this disease in aquaculture and aquarium settings.
Prevent skin injuries, reduce stocking density, good water quality.