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Primary splenic peripheral nerve sheath tumour in a dog
W Bergmann1, I A Burgener, P Roccabianca
1Institute of Animal Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Berne, Switzerland.
Journal of Comparative Pathology
|May 30, 2009
Summary
A rare malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (PNST) was found in a dog's spleen, presenting as progressive weakness and abdominal distension. This is the first documented case of primary splenic PNST in a canine patient.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Canine Oncology
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Peripheral nerve sheath tumors (PNSTs) are uncommon in dogs, typically arising in the spinal cord or peripheral nerves.
- Splenic masses in dogs are often hemangiomas, hemangiosarcomas, or other sarcomas, with PNST being an exceptionally rare differential diagnosis.
Observation:
- An 8-year-old crossbred dog exhibited progressive weakness, respiratory distress, and abdominal distension over one month.
- Surgical exploration revealed a splenic mass infiltrating the mesentery and adhering to adjacent organs, including the stomach and pancreas.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination showed a biphasic tumor with Antoni A and Antoni B patterns, characteristic of PNST.
- Immunohistochemistry confirmed neoplastic cells positive for vimentin, S-100, and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), supporting a nerve sheath origin.
Implications:
- This case represents the first documented instance of a primary malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor originating in the spleen of a dog.
- The findings expand the known anatomical distribution of PNSTs in canines and highlight the importance of considering rare differentials in splenic masses.
- Further research may elucidate the specific etiology and optimal treatment strategies for this rare canine splenic neoplasm.
