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Ovarian Embryonal Carcinoma in a Dog
B Banco1, R Ferrari1, D Stefanello1
1Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via C. Festa 9, Arenzano GE, Italy.
Journal of Comparative Pathology
|November 25, 2017
Summary
A rare embryonal carcinoma (EC), a type of primitive germ cell tumor, was diagnosed in a young Doberman Pinscher. This aggressive ovarian tumor highlights the need for considering EC in young dogs with ovarian masses.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Comparative Oncology
- Canine Reproductive Pathology
Background:
- Ovarian tumors are relatively uncommon in dogs, but can be aggressive and present with varied clinical signs.
- Primitive germ cell tumors, such as embryonal carcinoma, are rare in domestic animals, making diagnosis challenging.
Observation:
- A 17-month-old Doberman Pinscher presented with an abdominal mass and ascites, indicative of advanced disease.
- Exploratory laparotomy revealed a large ovarian tumor with extensive metastasis to the mesovarium, mesometrium, and peritoneum.
- Histopathological examination showed an infiltrative tumor with both round and polygonal cells, high mitotic activity, and evidence of emboli.
Findings:
- Immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of ovarian embryonal carcinoma (EC) by identifying specific markers: placental alkaline phosphatase in round cells and cytokeratins (CK AE1/AE3, CK7) in polygonal cells.
- The tumor exhibited features of rudimentary epithelial differentiation, characteristic of primitive germ cell tumors.
- Metastatic spread was evident, underscoring the aggressive nature of this canine ovarian tumor.
Implications:
- Canine ovarian embryonal carcinoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis for aggressive, undifferentiated ovarian tumors in young dogs.
- This case expands the understanding of rare germ cell tumors in veterinary oncology.
- Accurate diagnosis through histopathology and immunohistochemistry is crucial for appropriate management and prognosis in affected animals.
