Retrospective study of canine cutaneous tumors in Korea

Histopathological and Ultrastructural Study of a Canine Langerhans Cell Tumour (Canine Cutaneous Histiocytoma)

Canine cutaneous histiocytoma (CCH) represents a significant proportion of dog skin tumours, often manifesting as the most common neoplastic skin condition in young animals. Predominantly affecting dogs under four, these tumours appear primarily as solitary lesions that may regress spontaneously. This study, conducted over five years at the University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, involved a detailed histopathological and ultrastructural examination of 93 CCH cases. Histologically, these tumours showed distinct patterns of lymphoid infiltration, which contributed to their classification into four groups based on the inflammatory response and histological architecture. Most tumours displayed signs of epidermal invasion and frequent mitotic figures, with necrosis present in over half of the cases. Ultrastructurally, the neoplastic cells were characterised by pleomorphism, abundant organelles, and adherens-type junctions. This study offers significant insights into the pathophysiology and morphological characteristics of CCH, underscoring the importance of detailed histological and ultrastructural analysis in accurately diagnosing and understanding this common canine tumour.

Spontaneous tumours in dogs: A clinical and pathomorphological study in Kyrgyzstan

The aim of this study is to investigate the correlation between the incidence of spontaneous tumours of various origins and the localisation in dogs with sex, breed, and age factors. A total of 360 tumours with various localisation were studied pathomorphologically. Histopathologic data sets from 360 dog tissue samples were processed and statistically examined. A chi-square test of independence was conducted to examine the relationships among the various levels of the specified variables. Logistic regression models were employed for dichotomous outcomes to ascertain the influence of certain explanatory variables on the tumour types. Characteristic pathomorphological changes observed during examination of dogs with oncologic diseases were determined. The most common neoplasms were mammary tumours, accounting for 43% of the cases. The mammary gland tumours were most common in mongrel dogs (25%), with German Shepherds (17.3%), Poodles, Dachshunds, Central Asian Shepherds (6.7% each), and Rottweilers (5.7%) following. The highest frequency of these tumours appeared at 8 years of age, predominantly originating from the ductal epithelium, which represented 46.4% of all the malignant cases.

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor in the kidney of a dog

A 12-year-old castrated male poodle presented with vomiting and diarrhea. Ultrasonography and computed tomography revealed a protruding mass at the caudal pole of the left kidney. Grossly, the poorly circumscribed abnormal mass was 1.6 × 1.8 × 1.9 cm in size and had multifocal dark-red foci. Microscopically, it was composed of densely or loosely packed variable-sized short spindle or ovoid cells. These neoplastic cells showed high pleomorphism, mitotic figures, and invasive tendency to the adjacent tissue. Immunohistochemically, the neoplastic spindle cells expressed vimentin, S100, neuron-specific enolase, nerve growth factor receptor, and laminin. Therefore, the mass was diagnosed as a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST). To our knowledge, this is the first report of primary renal MPNST in a dog.

Efficient Topical Treatment of Canine Nodular Sebaceous Hyperplasia with a Nitric Acid and Zinc Complex Solution

Nodular sebaceous gland hyperplasia in the often middle-aged to old dog is a common, benign proliferation that results in exophytic, pink to yellow, alopecic, and often multilobulated nodules. Removal is usually carried out by surgical excision. As many old dogs have comorbidities that increase the risk of anesthesia, a topical treatment is warranted. We hypothesized that the application of a solution containing nitric acid, zinc, copper, and organic acids (Verrutop®), would be a safe and efficient way to treat these nodules. Eleven dogs with a total of 29 nodules, grossly compatible with nodular sebaceous gland hyperplasia, were included in the study. Eighteen of the nodules were treated; 11 were left untreated. No anesthesia or sedation was needed. Four weeks after one application, 17/18 treated nodules had decreased by 100% in volume. There was a statistically significant difference in percentual volume change between the treated and untreated nodules from day 0 to day 28 (p < 0.0001). No serious side effects were noted. Sebaceous hyperplasia cannot always be distinguished grossly from sebaceous tumors. Cytological evaluation can be helpful, and in cases of deviant macroscopic features, local recurrence, or more aggressive behavior, the appropriate intervention would be to biopsy or excise the nodule for histopathology. Topical application of Verrutop® is an easy, low-cost, and efficient way to remove canine sebaceous gland hyperplasia with minimal side effects in cases where surgery and anesthesia are not desired.

Pathological, histochemical, and immune-histochemical studies on some canine-skin neoplasm at Sharkia province, Egypt

Background

Cutaneous neoplastic disorders are often observed in small mammal pets, such as dogs, regardless of their gender.

Aim

An important objective of this work was to give a full account of the clinical, pathological, and immune-histochemical features of several skin tumors in dogs.

Methods

This study was a case series in the hospital clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt. Twenty-five dogs (14 males and 11 females) were examined clinically during the period from March 2022 to October 2023. The skin swelling was collected from affected animals and then subjected to a detailed histopathological study to record the different gross and microscopic findings and confirm the diagnosis by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Skin neoplasia in dogs was exposed to various clinical signs, and the dogs' ages ranged between 3 and 11 years. Concerning tumor features, the majority of neoplasms were malignant (65.52%) more than benign (34.48%). The study revealed the presence of 29 cases of dogs showed neoplasia with different prevalence rates including squamous cell carcinoma (13.79%), mast cell tumor (6.89%), basal cell tumors (10.34%), histiocytoma (6.89%), trichoepithelioma (10.34%), transmissible venereal tumor (10.34%), trichilemmoma (3.44%), scalp paraganglioma (3.44%), pilomatricoma (10.34%), malignant melanomas (17.24%), and miscellaneous cases as fat necrosis (6.89%), in males and females dogs with different histopathological lesions and immunohistochemistry expressions for pan-cytokeratin (CK), melanocyte-differentiation antigens (S100 protein), and synaptophysin.

Conclusion

Malignant melanomas (17.24%) are the extremely common cutaneous tumors diagnosed in this study. Meanwhile, benign tumors such as trichilemmoma, trichoepithelioma, pilomatricoma, and paraganglioma are less frequent in dogs.

Epidemiology of canine cutaneous round cell tumours on the canary archipelago in Spain

In this study we undertook a comprehensive analysis of a Pet Tumour Registry of the Canary Archipelago (PTR-CA) in Spain to investigate the epidemiology of canine cutaneous round cell tumours. From a database of 2526 tumours collected from 2003 to 2020, we conducted a longitudinal analysis of the main trends in diagnosis, age, multiplicity and anatomical distribution as well as a case-control study comparing these cases with the contemporaneous canine population of the Canary Archipelago to analyse breed distribution. In line with former studies, we found histiocytomas mostly affect young dogs (2, IQR 1-5) and mast cell tumours affect middle-to-old dogs (8, IQR 6-10) with grade 1 affecting at younger ages (6.5, IQR 6-8) than both grade 2 (8, IQR 6-10 years) and grade 3 (9, IQR 7-11). Histiocytomas and plasmacytomas showed a similar anatomical distribution appearing mainly on the face, head and neck regions while mast cell tumours occur mainly on limbs and trunk. Higher risk for mast cell tumours and histiocytomas were found for Bulldog-related breeds such as Boxer (ORMCT  = 23.61, CI95%: 19.12-29.15, ORHCT  = 10.17, CI95%: 6.60-15.67), Boston Terrier (ORMCT 19.47, CI95%: 7.73-49.05, ORHCT 32.61, CI95%: 11.81-90.07) and Pug (ORMCT 8.10, CI95%: 5.92-11.07, ORHCT 7.87, CI95%: 4.66-13.28) while Chihuahua dogs showed significantly less risk (ORMCT 0.18, CI95%: 0.09-0.33, ORHCT 0.41, CI95%: 0.21-0.78). Notably, the Canarian Mastiff, a local breed, had a low risk of suffering from a mast cell tumour which raises the question of whether this relates to a genetic peculiarity of this breed or some husbandry and environmental factor.

Incidence and the risk of occurrence of benign and malignant canine skin tumours in Poland - a five-year retrospective study

Introduction

The aim of the study was to compile data on the frequency and distribution of canine skin tumours and determine the risk of these being malignant as opposed to benign. This determination proceeded from tumour histogenesis and gave consideration to the dog's breed, sex, age and the anatomical location of tumours.

Material and Methods

This retrospective five-year epidemiological study included 3,139 canine skin tumours collected in Poland. A univariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Microscopic analysis showed a significant predominance of benign tumours (65.02%) as well as mesenchymal and melanocytic tumours (59.57%). The most frequently diagnosed were mast cell tumours, accounting for 13.79% of all skin tumours, and other common tumour types were lipomas (6.40%), haemangiopericytomas (5.96%) and malignant melanomas (4.65%). The risk of malignant versus benign tumours was 1.212 times higher in the female than in the male dogs. A higher risk of development of malignant epithelial tumours was found in boxers (OR 4.091), German shepherds (OR 4.085) and flat-coated retrievers (OR 43.596). A higher risk of development of malignant mesenchymal tumours was found in golden retrievers (OR 4.693), boxers (OR 2.342), bulldogs (OR 3.469) and Maltese (OR 2.757).

Conclusion

The results may serve as a reference point for further studies of the complex biology of canine skin tumours.

Optical coherence tomography for surgical margin evaluation of excised canine cutaneous and subcutaneous tumours

Currently, intraoperative tumour margin imaging is not routinely utilized in veterinary medicine. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) allows for real-time assessment of tissue morphology of 1-2 mm depth. The aims of this study were (1) to compare the histologic and OCT features of excised canine skin and subcutaneous specimens, and (2) to determine the diagnostic accuracy of OCT for surgical margin evaluation. The authors hypothesized that OCT imaging would correlate well with histopathology and that OCT would be sensitive for detection of incomplete margins. Eighty dogs were prospectively enrolled. Tumours were excised, and the surgical margins were imaged using a spectral domain OCT system. The tumour type and completeness of excision were determined by histopathology. Nine blinded observers received training in OCT image interpretation and were then given a set of OCT images and videos. The observers assigned each image/video a grade from 1 (no tumour) to 4 (tumour) and the results were compared to histopathology. The overall median sensitivity and specificity of OCT imaging for detection of incomplete margins were 86.7% and 84.6%, respectively. A potential limitation is that observers had varied experience with OCT image interpretation, ranging from no prior experience to participating in a previous OCT project. OCT is sensitive for detection of incomplete margins and could be a promising real-time surgical margin imaging modality. Further study is needed to evaluate intraoperative applications of OCT and its impact on tumour recurrence and long-term outcome.

Retrospective study of canine cutaneous tumors submitted to a diagnostic pathology laboratory in Northern Portugal (2014-2020)

Background

Cutaneous neoplastic diseases are the most and second-most frequently reported tumors in male and female dogs, respectively. The aims of this study were to report the occurrence of canine cutaneous tumors in a pathology laboratory located in Northern Portugal between 2014 and 2020, and to characterize and categorize the anatomical locations, breed, age, and sex of the animals affected with different types of neoplasms.

Results

Throughout the 7-year study, 1,185 cases were diagnosed as cutaneous tumors, with 62.9% being classified as benign, and 37.1% as malignant. Mast cell tumors (22.7%) were the most frequently diagnosed tumor type, followed by benign soft tissue tumors (9.7%), sebaceous gland tumors (8.1%), vascular tumors (7.9%) and soft tissue sarcomas (7.6%). Cutaneous tumors commonly exhibited multicentric occurrence (14.6%) followed by single occurrence in hindlimb (12.1%), forelimb (8.6%), buttock (7.1%), abdominal (6.5%) and costal (5.2%) areas. The odds of developing cutaneous neoplasia were higher with increasing age (p < 0.001). Females had an increased odds of developing skin tumors compared to males (crude OR = 2.99, 95% (2.51, 3.55); adj OR = 2.93, 95% (2.46, 3.49). Purebred dogs, as a group, showed a reduced odds of developing cutaneous tumors when compared to mixed-breed dogs (crude OR = 0.63, 95% (0.53, 0.74); adj OR = 0.75, 95% (0.62, 0.89).

Conclusions

Mast cell tumors, benign soft tissue tumors and sebaceous tumors were the most common histotypes encountered. The epidemiological survey achieved with this study demonstrates the relative frequency of different types of tumors in this particular population. Furthermore, the results herein achieved can act as a basis or a beneficial reference for local veterinarians helping in the establishment of a preliminary and presumptive diagnosis of canine cutaneous tumors histotypes.

Plain English summary

Skin tumors are the most and second-most frequently reported tumors in male and female dogs, respectively. The aim of this study was to report the occurrence of canine skin tumors in a diagnostic pathology laboratory located in Northern Portugal, between 2014–2020 and to characterize the anatomical distributions, breed, age, and sex of the animals affected by different skin tumors.

During this period, 1,185 cases were diagnosed as skin tumors; 62.9% were diagnosed as benign, while 37.1% were malignant. Mast cell tumors (22.7%) were the most frequently diagnosed neoplasia, followed by benign soft tissue tumors (9.7%), sebaceous gland tumors (8.1%), vascular tumors (7.9%) and soft tissue sarcomas (7.6%). Skin tumors commonly developed in more than one location (14.6%) followed by solitary development in hindlimb (12.1%), forelimb (8.6%), buttock (7.1%), abdominal (6.5%) and costal (5.2%) areas. An increased odds of developing skin neoplasms as the patient’s age increase was detected. Females showed an increased odds in comparison to male dogs. Purebred dogs presented decreased odds for developing skin tumors in comparison to mixed-breed dogs.

The information relevance achieved with this study demonstrates the relative frequency of different types of tumors in this particular population, acting as a basis or a beneficial reference for regional veterinarians when providing an initial diagnosis of canine skin tumors.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40575-022-00113-w.

Diagnosis, Prognosis and Treatment of Canine Cutaneous and Subcutaneous Mast Cell Tumors

Mast cell tumors (MCTs) are hematopoietic neoplasms composed of mast cells. It is highly common in dogs and is extremely important in the veterinary oncology field. It represents the third most common tumor subtype, and is the most common malignant skin tumor in dogs, corresponding to 11% of skin cancer cases. The objective of this critical review was to present the report of the 2nd Consensus meeting on the Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Treatment of Canine Cutaneous and Subcutaneous Mast Cell Tumors, which was organized by the Brazilian Association of Veterinary Oncology (ABROVET) in August 2021. The most recent information on cutaneous and subcutaneous mast cell tumors in dogs is presented and discussed.

Prevalence and distribution of canine neoplastic and non-neoplastic cutaneous lesions in Serbia: a retrospective study of 2432 Cases (2011 – Mid 2021)

Cutaneous lesions, especially skin tumors in dogs, are among the most common lesions in this animal species. The aim of this study was to identify the most common types of canine cutaneous lesions, to determine the absolute and relative frequency of each type of cutaneous lesion, anatomical locations, mean age, as well as gender and breed distribution. The examination included all samples of cutaneous lesions in dogs obtained by surgical biopsy in veterinary clinics and examined at the Laboratory of the Department of Pathology at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade from the 1st January 2011 to the 1st July 2021. In this period (126 months), a total of 2432 samples of cutaneous lesions were examined, of which 1984 (81.58%) were tumors (1037/1984, 52.27% benign and 947/1984, 47.73% malignant) and 448 (18.42%) non-neoplastic cutaneous lesions. The most commonly found cutaneous tumors were: mast cell tumor (17.34% of all tumors), histiocytoma (9.78%), papilloma (7.91%), lipoma (7.81%), squamous cell carcinoma (7.36%), trichoblastoma (4.44%), hepatoid adenoma (4.39%) and malignant melanoma (4.18%). The most common non-neoplastic cutaneous lesions were: follicular cyst(s) (35.04% of all non-neoplastic lesions), pyogranulomatous chronic dermatitis (23.88%), lymphocytic dermatitis (7.37%), hyperkeratosis (4.24%), and granulomatous dermatitis (3.79%). Our results substantially confirm previously reported data regarding cutaneous neoplastic and nonneoplastic lesions in dogs, and provide updated information on their frequency, animal age, anatomic location and breed distributions.

Skin masses in dogs under 1 year of age: 2554 cases (2006-2013)

OBJECTIVES

To utilise a large histopathology database to ascertain the incidence and nature of skin masses in young dogs from 0 to 12 months of age.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 2554 submissions received for histopathology from dogs 0 to 12 months of age, clinically diagnosed with a skin mass between 2006 and 2013, were retrieved from the database of a large commercial diagnostic laboratory. The histological diagnosis and site of the lesion, together with age, breed and sex of the dog were recorded.

RESULTS

The most common skin mass found in this study was histiocytoma (n=2212, 86.6%). The majority of all submissions were neoplastic (n=2408, 94.3%), and most of those were benign (n=2372, 98.5%). Almost all of the benign neoplastic lesions were of round cell origin (n=2229, 94.0%) whereas most of the non-neoplastic lesions were derived from the epithelium (n=136, 93.8%). The five most commonly diagnosed skin masses in young dogs were histiocytoma, papilloma, dermoid cyst, follicular cyst and mast cell tumour. A male predisposition was shown for histiocytoma (odds ratio 1.72) and mast cell tumour (odds ratio 2.18) with a strong site predilection for the limb region (30.8% and 27.8% respectively). Dermoid cysts and follicular cysts were most commonly found in the skin of the abdomen (64.7% and 52.3% respectively) with boxers being predisposed (25.9% of dermoid cyst and 25.0% of follicular cyst).

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

A large proportion of skin mass submissions in young dogs were neoplastic and benign. Also, the most common skin mass in young dogs was found to be histiocytoma. Tumours can occur in this age group and should be considered as a potential differential diagnosis also in young patients presenting with a skin mass.

Long-term Consequences of Pelvic Irradiation: Toxicities, Challenges, and Therapeutic Opportunities with Pharmacologic Mitigators

A percentage of long-term cancer survivors who receive pelvic irradiation will develop treatment-related late effects, collectively termed pelvic radiation disease. Thus, there is a need to prevent or ameliorate treatment-related late effects in these patients. Modern radiotherapy methods can preferentially protect normal tissues from radiation toxicities to permit higher doses to targets. However, concerns about chronic small bowel toxicity, for example, still constrain the prescription dose. This provides strong rationale for considering adding pharmacologic mitigators. Implementation of modern targeted radiotherapy methods enables delivery of focused radiation to target volumes, while minimizing dose to normal tissues. In prostate cancer, these technical advances enabled safe radiation dose escalation and better local tumor control without increasing normal tissue complications. In other pelvic diseases, these new radiotherapy methods have not resulted in the low probability of normal tissue damage achieved with prostate radiotherapy. The persistence of toxicity provides rationale for pharmacologic mitigators. Several new agents could be readily tested in clinical trials because they are being or have been studied in human patients already. Although there are promising preclinical data supporting mitigators, no clinically proven options to treat or prevent pelvic radiation disease currently exist. This review highlights therapeutic options for prevention and/or treatment of pelvic radiation disease, using pharmacologic mitigators. Successful development of mitigators would reduce the number of survivors who suffer from these devastating consequences of pelvic radiotherapy. It is important to note that pharmacologic mitigators to ameliorate pelvic radiation disease may be applicable to other irradiated sites in which chronic toxicity impairs quality of life.

Cryotherapy to treat benign skin tumours in conscious dogs

BACKGROUND

Cryotherapy can be used to treat benign skin lesions without general anaesthesia. This technique has only been described in anaesthetized dogs.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the feasibility, safety and efficacy of cryotherapy to treat benign skin tumours in conscious dogs.

ANIMALS

Twenty-five client-owned dogs with 52 skin tumours diagnosed as benign sebaceous neoplasia (46) or follicular cysts (six).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Cryotherapy was performed in conscious dogs using a liquid nitrogen spray technique with a handheld spray-release system. If needed, cryotherapy was repeated every three to four weeks until complete cure was achieved or for a maximum of eight treatments. Effectiveness and adverse effects were recorded.

RESULTS

Resolution was obtained for 29 of 52 lesions (57%) with a median number of one to two cryotherapy sessions. Eighteen of 52 (35%) lesions shrank to <0.1 cm. In one case, the tumour enlarged after cryotherapy, and histopathological examination of the excisional biopsy revealed an apocrine gland carcinoma. Pain and discomfort during the treatment were the most common adverse effects (33%).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE

In the present study, cryotherapy was possible in conscious dogs and proved to be effective to cure or reduce the size of benign sebaceous tumours and follicular cysts. The procedure is safe but the degree of pain during the treatment needs to be further investigated. Worsening of the lesion after cryotherapy suggests the need for surgical removal and histopathological examination.

Retrospective study of canine cutaneous tumors in Japan, 2008-2017

Cutaneous tumors are commonly found in dogs. To date, few studies have investigated the epidemiology of canine cutaneous tumors in Asian countries. The present study aims to report the prevalence of canine cutaneous tumors in Japan, and assess the association of breed, age, sex, and anatomical locations with the development of common tumor types. A total of 1,435 cases of cutaneous tumors were examined, of which 813 (56.66%) cases were malignant, and 622 (43.34%) were benign. Soft tissue sarcomas (18.40%), mast cell tumor (16.24%), lipoma (9.69%), hair follicle tumors (9.34%), and benign sebaceous tumors (8.50%) outnumbered the other tumor types. Tumors were commonly found on the head (13.87%), hindlimb (10.52%), forelimb (8.01%), chest (5.78%), and neck (5.57%). The risk of developing cutaneous tumors increased significantly in dogs aged 11-year and above (P<0.001). Mixed-breed dogs (14.63%), Miniature Dachshund (9.90%), and Labrador Retriever (8.01%) were the three most presented breeds; while Boxer, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Golden Retriever had an increased risk of cutaneous tumor development in comparison to mixed-breed dogs (P<0.05). Epidemiological information from the present study will serve as a useful reference for regional veterinarians to establish a preliminary diagnosis of canine cutaneous tumors.

Incidence of skin tumors in dogs in Salvador, Bahia state, Brazil (2007-2016)

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to establish the incidence of skin tumors (cutaneous proliferative lesions of neoplastic or non-neoplastic nature) in dogs diagnosed by histopathological evaluation at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory (LPV) of the Federal University of Bahia (UFBA) in a 10-year (2007-2016) historical series. Of the 1945 histopathological diagnoses made in this period, 503 were skin biopsies, and 617 dermatological problems (87 dogs, 17.3%, presented more than one positive diagnosis) were found. Of the 617 diagnoses of dermatopathy, 546 (88.49%) were tumors and 71 (11.51%) were non-tumorous alterations. The 546 conditions more profoundly studied were from 453 dogs, 468 (85.7%) neoplastic and 78 (14.3%) non-neoplastic tumors. The 468 neoplasms were classified as follows: 230 benign (49.14%), 215 malignant (45.94%), 23 borderline (epitheliomas) (4.91%), 51.92% (243/468) mesenchymal, 42.74% (200/468) epithelial, 4.91% (23/468) melanocytic, and 0.43% (2/468) metastatic (mammary gland). The most commonly diagnosed neoplastic dermatopathies were mastocytoma (14.7%) and lipoma (7.48%). Among the 78 non-neoplastic conditions (14.3%), epidermal inclusion cyst (39.74%) and trichogranuloma (15.38%) were the most frequent. Canine dermatopathies accounted for 26% of the biopsy files of the LPV-UFBA. Distinct simultaneous dermatological problems were frequently found in the dogs assessed (one in six). Considering that these conditions can present with different cellular origin and biological behavior, it is crucial that histopathological evaluation be performed in fragments from the different cutaneous lesions.

Cutaneous Tumors in Swiss Dogs: Retrospective Data From the Swiss Canine Cancer Registry, 2008-2013

Data collected in animal cancer registries comprise extensive and valuable information, even more so when evaluated in context with precise population data. The authors evaluated 11 740 canine skin tumors collected in the Swiss Canine Cancer Registry from 2008-2013, considering data on breed, sex, age, and anatomic locations. Their incidence rate (IR) per 100 000 dogs/year in the Swiss dog population was calculated based on data from the official and mandatory Swiss dog registration database ANIS. The most common tumor types were mast cell tumors (16.35%; IR, 60.3), lipomas (12.47%; IR, 46.0), hair follicle tumors (12.34%; IR, 45.5), histiocytomas (12.10%; IR, 44.6), soft tissue sarcomas (10.86%; IR, 40.1), and melanocytic tumors (8.63%; IR, 31.8) with >1000 tumors per type. The average IR of all tumor types across the 227 registered breeds was 372.2. The highest tumor incidence was found in the Giant Schnauzer (IR, 1616.3), the Standard Schnauzer (IR, 1545.4), the Magyar Vizsla (IR, 1534.6), the Rhodesian Ridgeback (IR, 1445.0), the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (IR, 1351.7), and the Boxer (IR, 1350.0). Mixed-breed dogs (IR, 979.4) had an increased IR compared to the average of all breeds. Previously reported breed predispositions for most tumor types were confirmed. Nevertheless, the data also showed an increased IR for mast cell tumors and melanocytic tumors in the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever and for histiocytomas in the Flat Coated Retriever. The results from this study can be taken into consideration when selecting purebred dogs for breeding to improve a breed's health.

Expression of Oestrogen Receptor, Progesterone Receptor and Akt in Canine Circumanal Gland Tumours

We investigated the expression of oestrogen receptor alpha (OR-α), progesterone receptor (PR) and Akt in canine circumanal gland tumours. Immunohistochemistry was conducted on seven normal circumanal glands, 30 circumanal gland adenomas and 40 circumanal gland carcinomas. The expression of OR-α and PR was significantly lower in circumanal gland carcinomas than in circumanal gland adenomas. In contrast, the expression of Akt was markedly higher in circumanal gland carcinomas than in circumanal gland adenomas. These results indicate that the progression of canine circumanal gland tumours is influenced by changes in the expression levels of OR-α, PR and Akt. Identifying the molecular mechanisms of canine circumanal gland tumours requires further study.

Evaluation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 activity in serum and biochemical and hematological parameters in spontaneous canine cutaneous tumors before and after surgical treatment

Recently, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), in particular the gelatinases MMP-2 and MMP-9, generally considered as tumor markers for clinical applications. A longitudinal 2-years follow-up survey was performed on dogs with cutaneous tumor. Serum samples were obtained from 22 dogs with different cutaneous tumors and 22 health dogs at the time of surgery and one month, three months and one year after surgery. Gelatin zymography, hematological and biochemical assessment were performed for all serum samples. The serum alkaline phosphatase activity in dogs with malignant tumors was significantly higher than that in dogs with benign tumors and control cases. Latent forms of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were detected in all of the tumor cases. Gelatin zymography showed active form of MMP-9 in 12 cases (three benign and nine malignant tumors) and active form of MMP-2 in one fibrosarcoma case. Serum activity of active-MMP-9 and total MMP-9 was significantly higher in dogs with cutaneous tumors than those in controls. Tumor cases had higher serum activity of active-MMP-9 rather than controls. MMPs and alkaline phosphatase activities in serum were decreased significantly after surgery. Only one case with perianal gland adenoma showed recurrence of tumor four months after surgery in which active form of MMP-9 had identified one month before recurrence. According to the findings, it will be useful to measure ALP, MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities in the serum of dogs with cutaneous tumor for determination of tumor behavior before surgical treatment.

Breed related odds ratio and anatomic distribution of canine mast cell tumours in Austria

Objective: An increased risk of mast cell tumours (MCT) in certain breeds has been described repeatedly in the literature. The incidence of MCTs for registered breeds in Austria, an estimate of the risk by means of the odds ratios based on breed as well as the anatomic localisation of MCTs were examined. Material and methods: In the first part of the study, the ranking of breeds in Austria based on 147,802 dogs with known breed (including mixed breed) was determined, based on those dogs included in the laboratory data base from 2000 to 2010. In the second part of the study, 476 dogs were identified with MCTs and analysed by age, sex, Patnaik grade of MCT and breed distribution. The odds ratios with confidence intervals were calculated for all breeds with skin tumours. Results: The age distribution showed a peak in the age group from 6.1 to 8.0 years; 70% of MCTs were localised to the head and trunk. No significant difference was found based on gender. The evaluation of the odds ratios showed that only four of the 20 of the most popular in Austria breeds (Boxer, Bernese Mountain Dog, Golden Retriever, Spaniel) had an increased risk; on the other hand, some breeds which have not been previously identified in the literature were indicated to have a significantly increased risk for MCT (e.g., Dogo Argentino, Tibetan Spaniel, Pyrenean Mountain Dog, Beauceron, and Austrian Smooth-haired Hound). Conclusion and clinical relevance: Because disease risk may influence the popularity of some currently rare breeds, consultation with breeders and owners regarding the identification of the breeds newly identified in this study as an increased risk for development of mast cell tumours is indicated.

First report of cutaneous infiltrative lipoma in goldfish Carassius auratus

Goldfish Carassius auratus is the most popular ornamental species, widely present in private and public aquaria. In the present case, 2 goldfish exhibited bilateral, multiple, variably sized, round, pale-white, soft, protruding masses on the body. The microscopic examination of the masses revealed well-differentiated adipocytes infiltrating the subcutaneous skeletal muscle bundles. The histological lesions were consistent with infiltrative lipoma. To our knowledge, this is the first report of cutaneous infiltrative lipoma in goldfish.

Clinical Outcomes of Surgically Managed Spontaneous Tumors in 114 Client-owned Dogs

Medical records of 139 tumors from 114 dogs that underwent surgery from May 2010 through March 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Among 114 dogs, females (64.9%) were significantly more common than males (35.1%) (p<0.05). Dogs aged 6 to 10 years were more presented than non-tumor patients, however, there was no significant difference. The mean age (±SD) was 10.3±3.0 years. Although we found no significant difference of breed predisposition, the most common breed was Maltese (19.3%), followed by Shih-Tzu (14.0%), and Yorkshire terrier (13.2%). Proportional morbidity ratios (PMRs) of mammary gland, oral cavity, and skin tumors were high in Poodles, Yorkshire terriers, and Golden retrievers, respectively. Mammary gland (36.0%) was the most common site, followed by skin and soft tissues (12.2%), oral cavity (10.8%), and digestive organs (8.6%), but there was no significant difference. The objectives of surgery were curative surgery (86.2%), biopsy (4.9%), and palliative surgery (6.5%). In this study, 123 of 139 tumors had histopathological diagnoses. Adenocarcinoma was the most common type (n=24), followed by adenoma (n=17), soft tissue sarcoma (n=13), benign mixed tumor (n=5), and others (n=64). Recurrence or suspected metastasis was identified in 26 dogs. Median survival times of malignant mammary gland tumors, skin and subcutaneous tumors, and splenic tumors were 1,563.0±1,201.7, 469, and 128 days, respectively.

Prospective study to investigate the use of fine needle aspiration techniques in UK veterinary practice

OBJECTIVES

To document the fine needle aspiration methods used by UK veterinary practitioners for the assessment of cutaneous masses and relate this to the achievement of a representative sample.

METHODS

An internet-based questionnaire was designed and publicised in the UK national veterinary press, at a national surgical meeting, and in letters to veterinary surgeons.

RESULTS

One hundred and seventy respondents replied to the questionnaire: 58 · 2% sampled cutaneous masses on the basis of appearance or behaviour; 41 · 3% sampled every cutaneous mass. Practitioners with a greater oncological caseload or who graduated more recently were more likely to recommend fine needle aspiration for every cutaneous mass (P = 0 · 019 and P = 0 · 0002 respectively); 66 · 5% of respondents applied suction during fine needle aspiration; 89% of all respondents used a 2 or 5 mL syringe in combination with a 21 or 23 G needle. There was no statistically significant association between achievement of a representative sample and syringe (P = 0 · 64) or needle size (P = 0 · 63).

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Fine needle aspiration is widely used in UK practice, but may be underutilised in practices with lower oncological caseloads. Survey participants reported a high rate of representative samples obtained using all the commonly used techniques. Further work is required to confirm these observations.

Scrotal tumors in dogs: a retrospective study of 676 cases (1986-2010)

The objective of this study was to determine common tumor types that occur on the canine scrotum in relation to other cutaneous locations and to identify potential risk factors for specific scrotal tumor development. A retrospective study was conducted and the database of pathology reports from the Surgical Pathology Service of the Department of Pathology and Toxicology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania from 1986 to 2010 was searched for canine neoplastic scrotal and non-scrotal cutaneous lesions. Neoplastic lesions were evaluated based on diagnosis, breed, age, and number and location of tumors (scrotal versus non-scrotal cutaneous). Mast cell tumor, melanocytoma, malignant melanoma, vascular hamartoma, hemangiosarcoma, hemangioma, and cutaneous histiocytoma were the most common tumor types identified on the canine scrotum. Breed predispositions and mean age at diagnosis were identified for each tumor type and should be considered when planning surgical excision of a canine scrotal tumor.

An overall assessment of circumanal gland adenoma in a terrier mix breed dog

In September 2012, a 10-year-old, intact male, terrier mix breed dog was evaluated because of multiple, 0.5 to 1.2 cm in diameter, round, intradermal nodules around the anus. It had surgery to excise a firm, painful swelling in the left ventrolateral perianal region and the excision part was observed under light microscopy. The mass spreading in to sub acute was of left hind leg out from the ventro-lateral of anus, 1.2 cm×1 cm/ 0 cm×0.5 cm in size and 125 g in weight. A complete blood cell count, serum biochemistry panel, and urinalysis (cystocentesis sample) were evaluated. Significant laboratory data demonstrated microcytic anemia (hemoglobin of 6.4 mg/dL) and normal coagulation times. No remarkable abnormalities were found in the complete blood count and an ionized calcium of 1.91 mmol/L (reference range, 1.1-1.3 mmol/L) was confirmed hypercalcemia. On cytologic and histopathologic examinations, evaluation of the aspirate revealed a prominent population of round-to-polygonal nucleated cells arranged as cohesive groups with isolated individual cells. A mild degree of anisocytosis and anisokaryosis was observed. In addition, smaller reserve type cells, with darker cytoplasm and a higher nucleocytoplasmic ratio. The adenomas generally retain the lobular architecture, but some may contain focal areas of cellular pleomorphism. These changes may suggest malignant transformation and have led to discordant interpretations, the well-developed stroma surrounding the lobules and hepatoid cells was noted. Ulceration, hemorrhage, necrosis and secondary infection with inflammatory cell infiltrates are common. These cytology and histopathology features are consistent with hepatoid gland adenoma.

The effect of interleukin-2 on canine peripheral nerve sheath tumours after marginal surgical excision: a double-blind randomized study

Background

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect on outcomes of intraoperative recombinant human interleukin-2 injection after surgical resection of peripheral nerve sheath tumours. In this double-blind trial, 40 patients due to undergo surgical excision (<5 mm margins) of presumed peripheral nerve sheath tumours were randomized to receive intraoperative injection of interleukin-2 or placebo into the wound bed.

Results

There were no significant differences in any variable investigated or in median survival between the two groups. The median recurrence free interval was 874 days (range 48–2141 days), The recurrence-free interval and overall survival time were significantly longer in dogs that undergone the primary surgery by a specialist-certified surgeon compared to a referring veterinarian regardless of whether additional adjunct therapy was given.

Conclusion

Overall, marginal excision of peripheral nerve sheath tumours in dogs resulted in a long survival time, but adjuvant treatment with recombinant human interleukin-2 (rhIL-2) did not provide a survival advantage.

Malignant pilomatricoma with multiple bone metastases in a dog: Histological and immunohistochemical study

An eleven year-old mongrel dog was referred with a history of left forelimb lameness and an ulcerated mass on the neck. Histologically, the cutaneous neoplasm revealed cystic lobules composed of basaloid cells with abrupt transition to central keratotic material, containing pycnotic and shadow cells. Approximately 3 months after primary diagnosis, a lesion of the cortical bone on the left humerus was observed using X-ray. Samples obtained from the humerus were processed for histopathological examination and the neoplastic tissue was observed to be similar to the type identified in the neck. Based on these findings, the tumor was diagnosed as a malignant pilomatricoma (MP) with bone metastasis. MP is a rare skin tumor that originates from hair matrix cells. To date, only nine reports have been presented in dogs. In the present study, we discuss the cytological and histological patterns of MP, confirmed by immunohistochemistry using β catenin antibody.

Histomorphological and immunohistochemical characterization of 172 cutaneous round cell tumours in dogs

This paper describes the use of a panel of antibodies (CD117, CD3, CD79a, CD45, cytokeratin, vimentin and E-cadherin) on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sections of canine cutaneous round cell tumours. Neoplastic tumours were diagnosed by histology and histochemical stains and included 107 mast cell tumours, 31 cutaneous histiocytomas, two localized histiocytic sarcomas, 21 cutaneous lymphomas, three plasma cell tumours, one transmissible venereal tumour and seven unclassified round cell tumours. The histologic diagnosis was modified in 39.5% of the total 172 neoplasms. The staining for CD45 and Ecadherin were variable, and therefore, the final diagnoses of cutaneous histiocytoma and localized histiocytic sarcoma were made based on histology in association with negative results for CD3, CD79a, CD117 and cytokeratin. The cellular origin of unclassified round cell tumours was defined in all cases. Cutaneous B-cell lymphoma and plasma cell tumours were CD79a-positive and could be distinguished from each other by the morphological characteristics. Mast cell tumours and T cell lymphoma were CD117 and CD3 positive, respectively. The positive staining for vimentin and the negative staining for CD3, CD79a, CD117 and cytokeratin favoured the diagnosis of transmissible venereal tumours. Thus, the final diagnosis of cutaneous round cell tumours should be based on the interpretation of immunohistochemical results together with the cellular morphology observed by histology. Therefore, more studies to optimize the specific markers in formalin-fixed, paraffinembedded tissues (especially for histiocytes) are required for definitive diagnosis of round cell tumours in dogs.

Neoplastic and nonneoplastic cutaneous tumors of dogs in grenada, west indies

This retrospective survey was undertaken between 2002 and 2007 on samples from dogs residing in Grenada. The objectives of the study were to identify the most common histologic types of canine cutaneous tumors, determine the relative frequency of each tumor type, and compare results to reports from other regions. In a series of 225 skin masses examined, the proportion of neoplasms was 72% whereas nonneoplastic tumors accounted for 15.6%, and inflammatory conditions constituted 12.4%. There were 10 types of nonneoplastic tumors with hamartomas being the most common (28.5%), followed by sebaceous hyperplasia (25.7%) and fibroepithelial polyps (22.8%). The 10 most common cutaneous neoplasms were hemangiosarcomas (19.1%), histiocytomas (8.6%), melanocytomas (8%), mast cell tumors (6.8%), lipomas (6.8%), hemangiopericytomas (6.2%), papillomas (5.6%), fibrosarcomas (5.6%), hemangiomas (4.9%), and squamous cell carcinomas (4.3%). Tumors of vascular origin and transmissible venereal tumors were more common in dogs in our study than reported from other regions.

Prevalência de neoplasmas cutâneos em cães da região metropolitana de Porto Alegre, RS: 1.017 casos (2002-2007)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar um estudo retrospectivo sobre neoplasias cutâneas diagnosticadasem cães. A avaliação foi realizada pela análise dos arquivos diagnósticos do Setor de Patologia Veterinária (SPV) da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Brasil, considerando-se um intervalo de seis anos (2002 a 2007). Neste intervalo, um total de 1.869 (37,3%) amostras de pele canina foram obtidas de 5.016 amostras variadas de tecidos de cães encaminhadas ao SPV. Dentre as amostras cutâneas, 1.002 pertenciam a cães diagnosticadoscom um tipo de neoplasia cutânea e 15 animais apresentaram mais de uma neoplasia de pele, totalizando 1.017 (20,3%) amostras. Os resultados revelaram que 50,5% (514/1017) das neoplasias cutâneas apresentaram origem mesenquimal, 45,1% (459/1017) paraepitelial e 3,9% (40/1017) para melanocítica. Mastocitoma foi o tipo neoplásico cutâneo mais frequente, diagnosticado em 228 casos (22,4%), seguido por carcinoma de células escamosas (7,5%), lipoma (7,3%), adenoma de glândula perianal (7,1%) e tricoblastoma (5,8%). Cocker Spaniel, Boxer, Poodle e Pastor Alemão foram as raças mais representadas em diversos neoplasmas. Os dados obtidos, comparados aos estudos prévios, ressaltam as variáveis raças, idade e sexo, relacionadas a alguns tumores cutâneos e salientam a importância e prevalência dos diferentes tipos de neoplasia cutânea em cães.

Mast cell tumours and other skin neoplasia in Danish dogs--data from the Danish Veterinary Cancer Registry

BACKGROUND

The Danish Veterinary Cancer Registry (DVCR) was established in May 2005 to gather information about neoplasms in the Danish dog and cat populations. Practitioners from more than 60 clinics throughout Denmark have submitted data on these species. The objectives of the current study were, with a special focus on mast cell tumours (MCT) to investigate the occurrence, gender distribution, biological behaviour, locations, types, the diagnostic method used and treatment of skin neoplasms in dogs based on information reported to the DVCR.

METHODS

From May 15th 2005 through February 29th 2008, reports on a total of 1,768 canine cases of neoplasia in the skin, subcutis or adnexa were submitted.) Of these, 765 cases (43%) were confirmed by cytology or histopathology.

RESULTS

The majority of dogs had a benign neoplasm (66%) while 21% were cases of malignant neoplasia. The most commonly encountered malignant neoplasms were MCT and soft tissue sarcomas and for benign neoplasms, lipomas and histiocytomas were the most common. The location of the neoplasms were primarily in the cutis, subcutis or in the perianal region. The occurrence, gender distribution, biological behaviour and location of canine skin neoplasias in Denmark were similar to earlier reports, although some national variations occurred. A correlation between grade of MCT and the proportion of cases treated surgically was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Population based cancer registries like the DVCR are of importance in the collection of non-selected primary information about occurrence and distribution of neoplasms. The DVCR provides detailed information on cases of skin neoplasms in dogs and may serve as a platform for the study of sub-sets of neoplastic diseases (e.g. MCT) or subgroups of the canine population (e.g. a specific breed).