Canine intestinal carcinoids

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Oncology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Intestinal carcinoids, a type of neuroendocrine tumor, are rare in dogs.
• Aged dogs are more susceptible to various neoplastic conditions.
• Understanding the characteristics of canine intestinal carcinoids is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.

Observation:

• Three aged dogs presented with intestinal neoplasms.
• Two tumors were located in the rectum, and one was found at the cecocolic junction.
• Histologic examination indicated malignant potential for all three tumors.

Findings:

• Amyloid deposition was observed in both rectal carcinoid tumors.
• Electron microscopy revealed electron-dense intracytoplasmic secretory granules in neoplastic cells, confirming the carcinoid diagnosis.
• All identified intestinal carcinoids exhibited malignant features.

Implications:

• This study highlights the occurrence and malignant nature of intestinal carcinoids in aged dogs.
• The findings contribute to the understanding of canine neuroendocrine tumors.
• Accurate diagnosis using histology and electron microscopy is vital for managing these rare canine cancers.