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Malignant schwannoma in a red deer (Cervus elaphus)
J Pérez1, J Martín de las Mulas, A Arenas
1Departamento de Anatomía y Anatomía Patalógica Comparadas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Córdoba, Spain.
The Veterinary Record
|December 17, 1998
Summary
A malignant schwannoma, a rare nerve sheath tumor, was diagnosed in a red deer. This atypical tumor caused severe lameness and bone destruction in the animal's hind leg.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Oncology
- Animal Science
Background:
- Malignant schwannoma is a rare tumor arising from peripheral nerve sheath cells.
- This case involves a five-year-old female red deer (Cervus elaphus) presenting with severe hind limb lameness.
- The tumor's large size and destructive nature significantly impacted the deer's physical condition.
Observation:
- A large mass (19.4 cm x 15.9 cm) was found involving the distal metatarsals, sesamoids, and phalanges of the left hind leg.
- Histopathological analysis revealed a spindle cell tumor with anaplastic features and Antoni type A pattern.
- Tumor cells exhibited positive staining for vimentin and S-100 protein, with no expression of neurofilament, GFAP, or keratins.
Findings:
- The immunophenotype and histopathological features were consistent with malignant schwannoma.
- The diagnosis was considered atypical due to the species (red deer), tumor location, and local malignancy.
- The tumor's extensive local invasion led to destruction of multiple bones in the hind limb.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering rare tumors in veterinary diagnostics, even in non-traditional species.
- Understanding the presentation and behavior of malignant schwannoma in cervids can improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment strategies.
- Further research into the etiology and specific risk factors for schwannoma in wildlife is warranted.