Presumptive metastatic leiomyosarcoma in a feedlot steer

A 14-month-old feedlot steer was depressed and died while being examined. The gross post-mortem examination of the steer conducted at the feedlot identified numerous masses within the abdomen and thorax, including a large mass in the liver that eroded into the vena cava. Many masses in the lungs appeared to be the result of hematogenous distribution. Histologic examination of the masses confirmed the presence of neoplasia. Although the histologic appearance of the neoplasms was not typical of well-differentiated leiomyosarcoma, immunohistochemical staining supported that diagnosis. Leiomyosarcomas are rare among North American cattle. In this case, the primary neoplasm appears to have originated in the wall of the vena cava within the liver. Key clinical message: This report adds to the limited information on leiomyosarcomas in cattle, while highlighting both the challenges faced by veterinarians conducting post-mortem examinations on large animals in below freezing temperatures, as well as the current methods available to arrive at a diagnosis of a rare disease.