Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 29, 2025

08:57
Author Spotlight: Genetically Engineered Mouse Models and Pathological Characterization of Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Associated Tumors
Published on: May 17, 2024
2.3K
Feline giant-cell pleomorphic sarcoma: cytologic, histologic and immunohistochemical characterization
Bianca S de Cecco1, Fernando F Argenta1, Ronaldo M Bianchi2
1Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery
|November 18, 2020
Summary
Feline giant-cell sarcoma, a pleomorphic sarcoma (PS), is a mesenchymal neoplasm characterized by multinucleated giant cells. Findings in cats resemble human malignant fibrous histiocytoma, suggesting potential for comparative treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Oncology
- Cytology
- Immunohistochemistry
Background:
- Feline giant-cell sarcoma, a type of pleomorphic sarcoma (PS), is a rare mesenchymal neoplasm.
- Understanding its cytologic, pathologic, and immunohistochemical (IHC) features is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the cytologic, pathologic, and IHC aspects of feline giant-cell sarcoma.
- To compare feline PS with human malignant fibrous histiocytoma.
Main Methods:
- Retrieved 13 cases of feline pleomorphic sarcoma (PS) from veterinary pathology records.
- Performed histopathology, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and IHC for vimentin, Iba-1, desmin, actin, and S-100.
Main Results:
- PS predominantly affected older female cats, often in the trunk and limbs.
- Cytology revealed spindle cells, small round cells, and multinucleated giant cells; IHC showed vimentin and Iba-1 positivity.
- Histopathology confirmed a combination of these cell types, with variable desmin/actin and negative S-100 staining.
Conclusions:
- Feline giant-cell sarcoma, a PS subtype, is characterized by multinucleated giant cells and spindle cells.
- The findings are comparable to human malignant fibrous histiocytoma, suggesting potential for cross-species treatment insights.

