Cardiac fibrosarcoma in a dog.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Canine Cardiology

Background:

• Cardiac tumors are rare in dogs.
• Fibrosarcomas can occur in various locations within the heart.

Observation:

• A 2-year-old Miniature Schnauzer presented with signs of right-sided heart failure and syncopal episodes.
• Necropsy revealed a large cardiac fibrosarcoma involving multiple heart structures.

Findings:

• The tumor obstructed the right ventricle, interatrial septum, and interventricular septum.
• It protruded into the right atrial lumen, distorting the tricuspid valve and narrowing outflow tracts.

Implications:

• This case underscores the difficulty in diagnosing cardiac tumors antemortem.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and prognosis in canine heart disease.