Thymic lymphosarcoma with brain involvement in a Holstein heifer.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Oncology
• Comparative Pathology
• Bovine Medicine

Background:

• Thymic lymphosarcoma is an uncommon malignancy in cattle.
• Early diagnosis is crucial for managing bovine lymphosarcoma, but clinical signs can be variable.

Observation:

• An 8-month-old Holstein heifer exhibited cervical enlargement, depression, jugular distension, and Horner's syndrome.
• Biochemical analysis revealed elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and thymidine kinase activity.
• Fine needle aspiration cytology identified lymphoblasts, suggesting lymphosarcoma.

Findings:

• Necropsy confirmed a large thymic lymphosarcoma compressing the esophagus and trachea.
• Cranial masses and extradural neoplastic infiltration were identified.
• Histopathology verified thymic lymphosarcoma with cerebral metastasis, a rare occurrence.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering lymphosarcoma in differential diagnoses for cattle with cervical masses and neurological deficits.
• The brain metastasis underscores the aggressive nature of some bovine lymphosarcomas.
• Further research into diagnostic markers and treatment strategies for bovine lymphosarcoma is warranted.