Multiple small intestinal pseudodiverticula associated with lymphoma in three horses
T S Mair1, G R Pearson, T J Scase
1Bell Equine Veterinary Clinic, Maidstone, Kent. tim.mair@btinternet.com
Equine Veterinary Journal. Supplement
|July 28, 2011
Summary
Three horses were diagnosed with T-cell intestinal lymphoma, a rare cancer causing weight loss and edema. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this aggressive equine condition.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Equine Oncology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Lymphoma is a common cancer in horses, but intestinal forms are less frequent.
- T-cell lymphoma is a specific subtype that can affect various organs.
Observation:
- Three horses presented with progressive weight loss, anorexia, ventral edema, and lethargy.
- Clinical signs included hypoalbuminemia, hyperfibrinogenemia, neutrophilia, and impaired glucose absorption.
- Post-mortem examinations revealed multifocal small intestinal lesions, enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes, and in one case, additional masses.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination confirmed intestinal lymphoma in all three horses.
- Immunohistochemistry identified the lymphomas as being of T-cell origin.
- Small intestinal biopsies showed a predominantly mononuclear cell infiltrate.
Implications:
- This study highlights T-cell intestinal lymphoma as a significant differential diagnosis in horses with unexplained weight loss and gastrointestinal signs.
- The findings underscore the importance of thorough diagnostic workups, including biopsies and advanced imaging, for accurate diagnosis.
- Further research into the pathogenesis and treatment strategies for equine intestinal lymphoma is warranted.
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