Olfactory neuroblastoma in a heifer

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Comparative Oncology

Background:

• Esthesioneuroblastomas are rare neuroblastic tumors originating from the olfactory epithelium.
• Nasal tumors in cattle can present with diverse clinical signs, impacting respiratory and neurological functions.

Observation:

• A heifer presented with mouth breathing and proptosis, indicative of significant space-occupying lesions.
• Gross examination revealed a large mass within the nasal cavity, palatine, and maxillary sinuses, extending into the nasopharynx and brain.

Findings:

• Histopathological analysis confirmed a diagnosis of esthesioneuroblastoma, characterized by small, undifferentiated piriform cells.
• The neoplasm exhibited turbinate atrophy, septal deviation, and extension to the olfactory bulb, with frequent mitoses suggesting rapid proliferation.

Implications:

• This case underscores the aggressive nature of esthesioneuroblastomas in cattle and their potential for intracranial extension.
• Understanding the pathological features is crucial for accurate diagnosis and potential therapeutic strategies in veterinary oncology.