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Infiltrative lipoma in cervical bones in a dog
Hye-Jin Kim1, Hwa-Seok Chang, Chi-Bong Choi
1Department of Veterinary Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea.
The Journal of Veterinary Medical Science
|November 9, 2005
Summary
A Maltese dog with right hemiparesis was diagnosed with an infiltrative lipoma in its cervical spine. Surgical removal of the adipose tissue mass led to a full recovery and normal ambulation.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Canine Oncology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Infiltrative lipomas are rare, benign adipose tissue tumors that can occur in various locations, including the spinal canal.
- Cervical spinal cord compression in dogs can lead to significant neurological deficits, such as hemiparesis.
Observation:
- A 4-year-old Maltese presented with a 2-month history of right hemiparesis.
- Radiographs showed bone lysis and sclerotic changes in cervical vertebrae, with a radiolucent mass.
- MRI revealed a hyperintense mass compressing the spinal cord.
Findings:
- Surgical removal via hemilaminectomy was performed.
- Histological examination confirmed the mass was composed of adipose tissue, consistent with an infiltrative lipoma.
- The infiltrative lipoma was located in the cervical region, extending from muscles to bone.
Implications:
- Surgical excision is an effective treatment for infiltrative lipomas causing spinal cord compression in dogs.
- Early diagnosis and intervention can lead to favorable long-term outcomes and restoration of neurological function.
- This case highlights the importance of advanced imaging and histopathology for diagnosing spinal masses in veterinary medicine.
