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Mineralizing Pulmonary Elastosis in a Cat
Tzushan S Yang1, Orion S Rivers2, Wes A Baumgartner3
1Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Department of Pathobiology and Population Medicine, Mississippi State University, Starkville, Mississippi, USA.
Abstract:
Mineralizing pulmonary elastosis (MPE) is a rare and unique phenomenon that has been reported in humans, typically secondary to recurrent pulmonary haemorrhage. MPE has a complex histopathological appearance, often containing iron-calcium deposits that can be mistaken as fungal organisms or other inorganic material. This report documents the first case of MPE in an animal species. A 10-year-old female domestic cat with respiratory failure was submitted for necropsy. The lungs were consolidated with severe pulmonary haemosiderosis, and widely disseminated granulomas surrounded large aggregates of hyphae-like structures. The pulmonary vasculature and airway smooth muscle were partially mineralized and fragmented. Histochemical stains revealed that the fungus-like material stained strongly with Prussian blue and alizarin red but only sparingly with von Kossa and negative with Gomori's methenamine silver stain. These findings are similar to those of MPE in humans. As most veterinary pathologists may not be familiar with MPE, it is important to avoid possible misinterpretation by recognizing its distinct features and the ancillary testing that may be required.
Insights
Mineralizing pulmonary elastosis (MPE), a rare condition causing lung mineralization, was identified for the first time in a domestic cat. This finding highlights the importance of recognizing MPE in veterinary pathology to avoid misdiagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Comparative Pathology
Background:
- Mineralizing pulmonary elastosis (MPE) is a rare human lung condition often linked to recurrent pulmonary hemorrhage.
- MPE presents complex histopathology with mineral deposits that can mimic fungal or inorganic material.
Observation:
- This report details the first documented case of MPE in a domestic cat presenting with respiratory failure.
- Necropsy revealed severe pulmonary haemosiderosis, granulomas, and mineralization of pulmonary vasculature and airway smooth muscle.
- Fungus-like structures within the lungs stained positively for iron and calcium.
Findings:
- The histochemical staining patterns of the mineralized material in the cat are consistent with MPE observed in humans.
- The mineralization involved iron-calcium deposits within the lung tissue.
Implications:
- This case expands the known species affected by MPE, suggesting it may occur in animals beyond domestic cats.
- Accurate identification of MPE in veterinary pathology is crucial to prevent misinterpretation as fungal infections or other conditions.
- Awareness of MPE's distinct features and necessary ancillary testing is important for veterinary pathologists.
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