Peripheral neuroblastomas in dogs: a case series

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Canine Oncology
• Neurobiology

Background:

• Peripheral neuroblastic tumors (PNTs) encompass a spectrum of sympathetic nervous system progenitor cell differentiation.
• Peripheral neuroblastoma is characterized by undifferentiated neuroblastic cells with limited neuronal differentiation.
• Canine peripheral neuroblastoma is an infrequently reported condition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document and characterize nine cases of canine peripheral neuroblastoma.
• To investigate the clinicopathological features and immunohistochemical profile of these tumors.
• To explore potential breed predispositions for canine peripheral neuroblastoma.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case review of nine canine peripheral neuroblastomas.
• Histopathological examination including assessment of cellular morphology and rosette formation.
• Immunohistochemical analysis using markers such as S100, neuron-specific enolase, synaptophysin, chromogranin A, and tyrosine hydroxylase.

Main Results:

• The majority of cases occurred as large masses in the craniodorsal abdominal cavity of young dogs (mean age 3 years).
• Histopathology revealed round to oval cells with scant cytoplasm and hyperchromatic nuclei; Homer-Wright rosettes were present in three cases.
• Immunohistochemistry confirmed a neurogenic origin, with neoplastic cells positive for neuroendocrine markers and negative for vimentin, cytokeratin, CD3, and CD79a.
• A potential breed predisposition was suggested, with 44% of cases in Labrador retrievers and 22% in boxers.

Conclusions:

• Canine peripheral neuroblastoma is a rare tumor typically affecting young dogs and often presenting as large abdominal masses.
• Immunohistochemical findings support a neurogenic differentiation of these canine tumors.
• The study suggests a possible breed predisposition, particularly in Labrador retrievers and boxers, warranting further investigation.