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Pheochromocytoma in six New World primates
C Juan-Sallés1, J A Ramos-Vara, M M Garner
1Department of Pathology, Africam Safari, 72007 Puebla, Pue., México. cjuansalles@yahoo.com
Veterinary Pathology
|March 12, 2009
Summary
Pheochromocytomas, rare adrenal tumors, were identified in six New World primates. These benign tumors were incidental findings in animals succumbing to other serious diseases.
Area of Science:
- Comparative Pathology
- Primate Oncology
Background:
- Pheochromocytomas are rare neuroendocrine tumors originating from chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla or sympathetic ganglia.
- Their occurrence in non-human primates is infrequently reported, making this study valuable for comparative oncology.
Observation:
- Six New World primates (golden lion tamarins, cotton-top tamarins, black howler monkey, black-handed spider monkey) were diagnosed with pheochromocytoma.
- Tumors were unilateral (4/6), bilateral (1/6), or extra-adrenal (1/6), confirmed by microscopy and chromogranin A staining.
- No invasive behavior or metastases were observed, indicating benign neoplastic behavior.
Findings:
- All pheochromocytomas were considered benign, as no invasive growth or metastasis was detected.
- The primates died from other causes, including malignant neoplasia, infection, or renal disease.
- All individuals exhibited myocardial fibrosis, and some had arteriosclerosis, irrespective of tumor functionality.
Implications:
- This study highlights the incidental finding of benign pheochromocytomas in diverse New World primate species.
- The association with myocardial fibrosis and arteriosclerosis warrants further investigation into potential functional or non-functional impacts.
- Findings contribute to the understanding of comparative oncology and primate pathology.
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