Malignant Trichoblastoma with Sarcomatous Stroma in a Rabbit

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Comparative Oncology
• Dermatopathology

Background:

• Neoplastic skin lesions in rabbits can present diagnostic challenges.
• Understanding rare tumor types aids in accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Observation:

• A 10-year-old female rabbit presented with an invasive, ulcerated dermal mass on the neck.
• Histological examination revealed a complex tumor with trichoblastomatous, basal cell carcinoma (BCC)-like, and undifferentiated carcinomatous components.
• The BCC-like component was characterized by epithelial foci and a unique sarcomatous stroma.

Findings:

• Immunohistochemistry confirmed neoplastic epithelial cells positive for p63 and cytokeratin (CK).
• Stromal and giant cells were immunopositive for vimentin but negative for CK and p63.
• This case represents the first report of a malignant trichoblastoma with sarcomatous stroma in an animal.

Implications:

• This finding expands the spectrum of cutaneous neoplasms in rabbits.
• The unique histological and immunohistochemical profile offers insights into tumor differentiation and behavior.
• Further research may elucidate the pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets for such complex tumors.