Undifferentiated sarcoma resolved by forelimb amputation and prosthesis in a radiated tortoise (Geochelone radiata)

An adult female, radiated tortoise (Geochelone radiata) presented with a grossly swollen left forelimb that restricted mobility and prevented limb withdrawal. Clinical pathology revealed leukopenia (1.9 x 10(9)/L) and hyperproteinemia (69 g/L) that on protein electrophoresis was attributed to increased acute-phase proteins in the alpha fraction (26.4 g/L). Biopsy revealed a poorly differentiated soft tissue sarcoma. Surgical amputation at the proximal humerus was curative. To encourage postoperative mobility, a novel methylmethacrylate prosthesis, molded from a lubricated transected tennis ball, was adhered to the plastron using three cortical bone screws. This is the first recorded case of a sarcoma in the genus Geochelone.