Cholesterol granulomas in mice deficient in apolipoprotein E

Three 12- to 16-month-old female B6,129 apolipoprotein E-deficient mice were presented for necropsy because of bilateral masses in the gluteal region. Histopathologic examination revealed cholesterol granulomas extending from the superficial dermis to the underlying gluteal muscles. Microscopic granulomas were found on the face, perivaginal tissues, mesenteric lymph nodes, spleen, joints, kidneys, and choroid plexus. Other lesions included severe atherosclerosis of the aortic valves, aorta, pulmonary artery, and renal artery. Here we show that macroscopic cholesterol granulomas can develop in apolipoprotein E-deficient that receive a normal rodent diet.