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Giant splenic myelolipoma in a cat with hyperthyroidism
Kerry E Rolph1, Beatriz Vidana2, Elinor Field3
1Center for Integrative Mammalian Research, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, St Kitts, West Indies.
JFMS Open Reports
|October 17, 2022
Summary
This study reports the first documented case of a giant splenic myelolipoma in a hyperthyroid cat, a rare condition in veterinary medicine. This finding expands our understanding of feline splenic masses and their potential association with endocrine disorders.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Comparative Pathology
- Oncology
Background:
- Splenic myelolipomas are rare feline neoplasms.
- Giant myelolipomas are exceptionally rare, with most human cases originating in the adrenal gland.
- The pathogenesis of myelolipomas is not fully understood, but endocrine stimulation is a potential factor.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old shorthair cat presented with tachycardia and a large abdominal mass after trauma.
- Ultrasonography revealed a large, hyperechoic abdominal mass of undetermined origin.
- Fine-needle aspirate indicated extramedullary hematopoiesis.
Findings:
- Surgical exploration identified a large (12x8x8 cm) pale splenic mass.
- Histopathology confirmed the mass as a giant splenic myelolipoma.
- The cat was diagnosed with concurrent hyperthyroidism.
Implications:
- This case represents the first report of a giant splenic myelolipoma in a domestic cat.
- It highlights a potential link between feline hyperthyroidism and splenic myelolipoma development.
- Further research into the endocrine-associated pathogenesis of these rare feline tumors is warranted.
