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Metastatic Anaplastic Sarcoma in a Wild Lace Monitor (Varanus varius)
Jaimee L Wheelhouse1, John T Mackie2
1Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors, 1638 Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah, Queensland 4519, Australia.
Journal of Wildlife Diseases
|March 29, 2023
Summary
A lace monitor (Varanus varius) with a malignant anaplastic sarcoma, resembling hemangiosarcoma, was euthanized. Metastatic cancer was found in the lung, heart, and liver.
Area of Science:
- Herpetology
- Veterinary Pathology
- Comparative Oncology
Background:
- Malignant neoplasms are uncommon in wild reptiles.
- Lace monitors (Varanus varius) are large predatory lizards native to Australia.
- Anaplastic sarcomas are aggressive tumors with poor prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document a case of malignant anaplastic sarcoma in a wild lace monitor.
- To describe the histopathologic features and metastatic patterns of the tumor.
- To contribute to the understanding of reptilian oncology.
Main Methods:
- Gross necropsy and histopathologic examination of tissues.
- Microscopic evaluation of tumor morphology and metastatic sites.
- Differential diagnosis including hemangiosarcoma.
Main Results:
- A wild lace monitor presented with an inoperable, malignant anaplastic sarcoma.
- Histopathology confirmed the sarcoma's resemblance to hemangiosarcoma.
- Metastatic disease was identified in the lung, heart, and liver.
Conclusions:
- Malignant anaplastic sarcoma can occur in wild lace monitors.
- This case highlights the potential for aggressive tumor behavior and metastasis in this species.
- Further research is needed on reptilian neoplasia and its clinical implications.
