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Chordomas in Fischer 344 rats
S A Stefanski1, M R Elwell, K Mitsumori
1Chemical Pathology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC.
Veterinary Pathology
|January 1, 1988
Summary
This study examined rat chordomas, finding they occur in older males, originate in the spine, and are highly malignant. These tumors often cause hindlimb weakness and bowel issues in affected rats.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Oncology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Chordomas are rare bone tumors originating from notochordal remnants.
- Understanding their occurrence and behavior in animal models is crucial for comparative oncology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the morphology, incidence, and biological behavior of chordomas in rats.
- To identify risk factors and clinical signs associated with rat chordomas.
Main Methods:
- Histopathological examination of tissue sections from 56 rats with chordoma.
- Analysis of records from the National Toxicology Program (NTP) database (approx. 115,000 rats).
Main Results:
- Chordomas were identified in aged rats, predominantly originating in the lumbosacral vertebrae.
- The incidence was three times higher in male rats compared to females.
- Tumors were highly malignant and commonly caused bilateral posterior paresis, paralysis, and/or distention of the colon and rectum.
Conclusions:
- Rat chordomas share morphological and behavioral similarities with human chordomas.
- Age and sex are significant factors in rat chordoma development.
- Clinical signs provide important diagnostic indicators for this condition in rats.