Primary suprasellar germ cell tumor in a dog

A 5-year-old female Rottweiler was examined because of a history of progressive CNS depression and apparent blindness. Findings included retinal degeneration and cranial nerve deficits as well as pronounced hypercholesterolemia and bradycardia. At necropsy, a 3-cm soft, tan mass was found on the ventral surface of the rostral portion of the brain, encompassing the hypophysis and filling the sella tursica. Histologic examination of tumor sections identified 3 distinct cell types. The location and histologic features of the solitary tumor were most consistent with classification as a primary intracranial germ cell tumor.