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Uveal malignant melanoma in a duck
B C Gilger1, S A McLaughlin, P Smith
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus 43210-1089, USA.
Summary
A rare malignant uveal melanoma in a Muscovy x Peking duck caused a periocular mass and thoracic metastasis. Despite orbital exenteration, the avian cancer rapidly regrew, highlighting its aggressive nature.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary ophthalmology
- Avian pathology
- Comparative oncology
Background:
- Melanocytic neoplasms are uncommon in avian species.
- Uveal melanomas, a type of eye cancer, are particularly rare in birds.
- This report details a unique case in a hybrid duck.
Observation:
- An adult male Muscovy (Cairina moschata) x Peking (Anas platyrhynchos) duck presented with a malignant uveal melanoma.
- The ocular tumor extended into the periocular tissues, causing significant globe displacement.
- Thoracic metastasis was observed, affecting pectoral muscles, ribs, and the cranial lung lobe.
Findings:
- The periocular mass led to a 1.5 cm lateral displacement of the globe.
- Metastasis to the thorax caused diminished voluntary motion of the left wing.
- Surgical removal (exenteration) of the left orbit was performed, but tumor regrowth occurred within two weeks.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for aggressive behavior in rare avian melanocytic neoplasms.
- It highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with avian ocular and metastatic tumors.
- Further research into the pathogenesis and treatment of melanocytic neoplasms in birds is warranted.