Beyond BSE: Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies in other animal species

There are several other diseases besides BSE which belong to the group of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE). Although most mammals can be experimentally infected with the agent of these diseases, generally only single representatives of the orders Artiodactyla (cloven-hoofed animals), Carnivora (carnivores) and Primates (humans and monkeys) are naturally infected in the field. An overview of the current state of knowledge on TSE in several species like exotic ruminants, deer, mink and cats is presented. Etiological, clinical, anatomic-pathological and epidemiological aspects are described.