Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 24, 2026
09:22
Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension and Assessment of Right Ventricular Function in the Piglet
Published on: November 4, 2015
Malignant pheochromocytoma in a pig
Jorge Martínez1, Iván Galindo-Cardiel, Meritxell Díez-Padrisa
1Departament de Sanitat i Anatomia Animals, Universitat Autònoma Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain. jorge.martinez.martinez@uab.cat
Summary
This report details a rare malignant pheochromocytoma in a sow, characterized by a large adrenal gland mass with lymph node metastasis. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis, highlighting this endocrine tumor in swine.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
Background:
- Endocrine tumors, particularly pheochromocytomas, are uncommon in pigs.
- Previous reports of pheochromocytomas in swine are scarce.
Observation:
- A 15-cm white, firm neoplastic mass was identified in the adrenal gland of a 2.5-year-old sow.
- Metastasis to regional lymph nodes was observed.
- Histopathological examination revealed marked desmoplasia and neoplastic cells arranged in cords and packets.
Findings:
- Immunohistochemical staining was positive for chromogranin.
- Immunohistochemical staining was negative for neurofilament protein.
- These findings are characteristic of a malignant pheochromocytoma.
Implications:
- This case contributes to the limited understanding of adrenal gland tumors in pigs.
- It underscores the importance of diagnostic techniques like immunohistochemistry in identifying rare endocrine neoplasms.
- Further research may elucidate the specific characteristics and behavior of pheochromocytomas in swine.
