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Updated: Jun 16, 2026
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Three-Dimensional Bone Extracellular Matrix Model for Osteosarcoma
Published on: April 12, 2019
Gingival osteogenic melanoma in two dogs
Angela E Ellis1, Barry G Harmon, Debra L Miller
1Athens Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602-7388, USA. aellis@uga.edu
Summary
Osteogenic melanoma, a rare cancer variant, was identified in two dogs. This study shows malignant melanocytes can form bone, a metaplastic potential also seen in humans.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Oncology
- Comparative Pathology
Background:
- Osteogenic melanoma is a rare metaplastic malignant melanoma variant in humans.
- Its occurrence in veterinary medicine, particularly in dogs, is similarly rare.
Observation:
- This study reports on two canine oral malignant melanoma cases exhibiting neoplastic bone formation.
- Tumors showed malignant melanocytes transitioning into neoplastic bone at deep margins.
Findings:
- Immunohistochemistry confirmed S100- and Melan-A-positive neoplastic cells.
- These cells were adjacent to or embedded within osteoid and chondroblastic matrix.
- Neoplastic cells also showed positivity for osteocalcin, indicating osteogenic potential.
Implications:
- This research confirms that canine neoplastic melanocytes possess metaplastic potential.
- It demonstrates that these cells can undergo osteogenic differentiation, mirroring findings in human medicine.
- This adds to the understanding of rare melanoma variants and their biological behavior in dogs.
