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Fibroblastic osteosarcoma in a lion (Panthera leo)
L Leonardi1, E Lepri1, S Nannarone2
1Dipartimento di Scienze Biopatologiche e Igiene delle Produzioni Animali e Alimentari, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Italy.
Open Veterinary Journal
|December 2, 2015
Summary
A rare fibroblastic osteosarcoma was found in a lion's humerus. This malignant bone tumor showed aggressive invasion and reactive bone formation.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Comparative Oncology
Background:
- Spontaneous tumors are rare in wild animals.
- Osteosarcoma is an aggressive bone cancer.
Observation:
- A lion presented with a humerus mass.
- The tumor was irregular, poorly vascularized, and necrotic.
- It invaded bone, joint capsule, and ligaments.
Findings:
- Histopathology confirmed fibroblastic osteosarcoma.
- Grossly, the tumor breached the cortex with reactive bone.
- Hemorrhagic effusion was present in the joint.
Implications:
- This case highlights rare bone cancer in lions.
- Understanding tumor behavior in exotic animals is crucial.
- Provides insights into comparative osteosarcoma pathology.

