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A Model for Perineural Invasion in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: January 5, 2017
Canine intraneural perineurioma
R J Higgins1, P J Dickinson, D F Jimenez
1Department of Pathology, Immunology and Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA. rjhiggins@ucdavis.edu
Veterinary Pathology
|January 13, 2006
Summary
A German Shepherd Dog experienced progressive leg weakness due to an intraneural perineurioma, a rare nerve sheath tumor. This case highlights the importance of advanced imaging and histology for diagnosing canine peripheral nerve tumors.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Canine Pathology
- Neoplastic Disease
Background:
- Peripheral nerve sheath tumors are uncommon in dogs.
- Intraneural perineuriomas are a rare subtype, originating from perineurial cells.
Observation:
- A 6-year-old German Shepherd presented with progressive, nonpainful left pelvic limb paresis.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed muscle atrophy and an enlarged L5 spinal nerve.
- Surgical exploration revealed thickened L5 and L6 nerve roots.
Findings:
- Histopathology confirmed distended fascicles with neoplastic perineurial cells forming pseudo-onion bulbs.
- Immunohistochemistry showed perineurioma cells were negative for S-100 and collagen IV, but positive for laminin.
- Ultrastructural analysis revealed characteristic perineurial cell processes and desmosomal junctions.
Implications:
- This case provides detailed morphologic and immunologic data on canine intraneural perineurioma.
- The findings help differentiate this tumor from other neuropathies, such as hypertrophic neuropathy.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management of peripheral nerve tumors in dogs.
