| Webster's Online Dictionary |
| Expressions | Definition | ||
| Feline infectious peritonitis | Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a fatal, incurable disease that affects cats. It is caused by Feline Infectious Peritonitis Virus (FIPV), which is a mutation of Feline Enteric Coronavirus (FECV/FeCoV). Experts do not always agree on the specifics of FIP. However, the most common theory is that the normally benign FECV mutates into FIPV. The mutated virus has the ability to invade and grow in certain white blood cells. The immune system's response causes an intense inflammatory reaction in the containing tissues. (references) | ||
Source: compiled by the editor from various references; see credits. | Top | ||
| Expressions | Domain | Definition | |
| Feline Infectious Peritonitis | Health | Common coronavirus infection of cats caused by the feline infectious peritonitis virus. The disease is characterized by a long incubation period, fever, depression, loss of appetite, wasting, and progressive abdominal enlargement. Infection of cells of the monocyte-macrophage lineage appears to be essential in FIP pathogenesis. (references) | |
Source: compiled by the editor from various references; see credits. | Top | ||
