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Updated: Jan 22, 2026
09:03
Analysis of Human Natural Killer Cell Metabolism
Published on: June 22, 2020
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Blastic natural killer cell lymphoma/leukaemia in a cat
Miyuki Hirabayashi1, James K Chambers1, Mei Sugawara2
1Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
JFMS Open Reports
|July 20, 2019
Summary
A cat diagnosed with blastic natural killer (NK) cell lymphoma/leukaemia highlights the importance of CD56 as a diagnostic marker. This rare feline cancer underscores the need for further research into NK cell neoplasms in animals.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Oncology
- Immunology
Background:
- Lymphoma is a common malignancy in cats, but specific subtypes can be challenging to diagnose.
- Natural Killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes with cytotoxic functions, implicated in various neoplasms.
Observation:
- A 7-year-old cat presented with subcutaneous edema and erythema, revealing atypical round cells on fine-needle aspiration.
- Necropsy showed a subcutaneous mass, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, and lymphadenopathy, with diffuse infiltration of atypical cells in multiple organs.
- Immunohistochemistry revealed tumor cells positive for CD56 and negative for T-cell and B-cell markers.
Findings:
- The feline tumor cells expressed CD56, consistent with a diagnosis of blastic natural killer (NK) cell lymphoma/leukaemia.
- Clonality analysis for T-cell receptor-gamma and immunoglobulin heavy chain genes was negative, ruling out common T-cell or B-cell lymphoma.
- The study confirmed cross-reactivity of a human CD56 antibody with feline CD56 via immunohistochemistry and Western blotting.
Implications:
- CD56 can serve as a valuable diagnostic marker for feline NK cell neoplasms.
- This case expands the understanding of NK cell lymphoma/leukaemia in veterinary oncology.
- Further investigation into feline NK cell neoplasms is warranted for improved diagnosis and treatment strategies.
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