Aplastic anemia in cats — clinicopathological features and associated disease conditions 1996–2004

A retrospective study of 128 feline bone marrow reports identified 13 cases of aplastic anemia. Clinical diagnoses included chronic renal failure ( n=5), feline leukemia virus infection ( n=2), hyperthyroidism treated with methimazole ( n=1) and idiopathic aplastic anemia ( n=5). In some cats, starvation may play a role in the development of marrow aplasia. Some cats with aplastic anemia can have prolonged survival without resolution of the pancytopenia.

Changes in C-reactive protein and haptoglobin in dogs with lymphatic neoplasia

Acute phase proteins (APP) are regarded as a useful diagnostic tool in humans with lymphomas, leukaemias and multiple myeloma. C-reactive protein (CRP) and haptoglobin concentrations were measured in dogs with malignant multicentric (high grade) lymphoma (n=16), acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) (n=11), chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) (n=7) and multiple myeloma (n=8). Twenty-five healthy dogs served as controls. Measurements of the CRP plasma concentration were performed using a commercial ELISA and haptoglobin was measured with an assay based on its haemoglobin binding capacity. Global group comparisons using Kruskal-Wallis-test revealed significant group differences for both APPs (P<0.0001). Median CRP concentrations were increased in all groups with neoplastic lymphatic disorders (lymphoma: 37.2mg/L, ALL: 47.8mg/L, CLL: 35.5mg/L, myeloma: 17.6mg/L) compared to controls (1.67mg/L; P<0.001). Compared to the healthy controls (median=0.59g/L), haptoglobin was especially increased in dogs with ALL (6.8g/L, P<0.0001) followed by dogs with malignant lymphoma (3.8g/L, P<0.0001), CLL (3.2g/L, P=0.0008), and multiple myeloma (3.0g/L, P=0.0163). For both APPs, a wide range of values was found in all patient groups. The results indicate that particularly severe and acute lymphatic neoplasia, such as high grade lymphoma and ALL, cause significant acute phase reactions in dogs and must be included in the differential diagnoses of increased blood levels of these APPs.

Feline large granular lymphocyte (LGL) lymphoma with secondary leukemia: primary intestinal origin with predominance of a CD3/CD8(alpha)(alpha) phenotype

Clinicopathologic and immunophenotypic characteristics of large granular lymphocyte (LGL) neoplasia in 21 cats were examined. All cats were domestic short (19) or long hair (2) with a mean age of 9.3 years at diagnosis. Increased peripheral blood LGL counts were present in 18/21 cats. Neutrophilia (12/21 cats) and increased serum liver enzymes (7/12), total and direct bilirubin (7/13), BUN (5/14), and creatinine (2/14) were observed. Cats usually presented with advanced disease and none survived longer than 84 days (mean 18.8 days) postdiagnosis. Cytologically, LGLs had a mature (6/21), immature (13/21), or mixed (2/21) morphology. Necropsy lesions consisted of neoplastic lymphoid infiltrates in the jejunum, ileum, and duodenum in decreasing order of frequency. In the small intestine, mucosal ulceration (9/13) and epitheliotropism of neoplastic cells (9/13) were common. Neoplastic infiltrates were also present in the mesenteric lymph nodes (13/13), liver (12/13), spleen (8/13), kidneys (5/7), and bone marrow (5/7). A T cell phenotype (CD3epsilon+) characterized LGL neoplasia in 19/21 cases. A CD8alphaalpha+ cytotoxic/suppressor phenotype was present in 12/19 T cell tumors, 2 had a CD4+CD8alphaalpha phenotype, 3 had a CD4-CD8- phenotype, and 2 were CD4+ helper T cells. CD8beta chain expression was not detected in any instance. In two cats, a B or T cell origin could not be established. CD103 was expressed by 11 of 19 (58%) of the lymphomas tested. The immunophenotypic features shared by neoplastic LGLs in the cat and feline intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) support a small intestinal IEL origin for feline LGL lymphoma.

Bovine leukemia virus high tax molecular clone experimentally induces leukemia/lymphoma in sheep

Sheep were inoculated with high tax coded pBLV-IF (H group, Nos.1-5) of bovine leukemia virus (BLV), wild tax coded pBLV-IF (W group, Nos. 6-11), or control plasmid (C group, Nos. 12-14). During the observation period (4 to 46 months), 5 of 5 cases in H group and 3 of 6 cases (Nos. 6, 7, 9) in W group became positive for gp 51. Only 1 case in H group became leukemic, and one case each of H and W groups developed lymphoma. In No. 3, lesions were found in multiple organs including the lymph nodes, gastrointestinal tract following abomasum, and heart. In No. 6, lesions of lymphoma were found only in the jejunum and heart. Morphologically, small to middle-sized lymphocytic neoplastic (NP) cells were found in both cases, but lymphoblastic NP cells were found only in No. 3. By immunohistochemical examination, the phenotypes of NP cells were determined as CD1-, CD4-, CD5- -, CD8alpha-, sIgM+, lambda light chain+, B-B4+, MHC class II+ in both case. The results of this study indicate that inoculation of pBLV-IF can induce lymphocytic and lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma in sheep. Additionally, it is suggested that the expression rate of tax gene is not associated with the development of leukemia/lymphoma in sheep experimentally inoculated with pBLV-IF.

A canine cancer-gene microarray for CGH analysis of tumors

As with many human cancers, canine tumors demonstrate recurrent chromosome aberrations. A detailed knowledge of such aberrations may facilitate diagnosis, prognosis and the selection of appropriate therapy. Following recent advances made in human genomics, we are developing a DNA microarray for the domestic dog, to be used in the detection and characterization of copy number changes in canine tumors. As a proof of principle, we have developed a small-scale microarray comprising 87 canine BAC clones. The array is composed of 26 clones selected from a panel of 24 canine cancer genes, representing 18 chromosomes, and an additional set of clones representing dog chromosomes 11, 13, 14 and 31. These chromosomes were shown previously to be commonly aberrant in canine multicentric malignant lymphoma. Clones representing the sex chromosomes were also included. We outline the principles of canine microarray development, and present data obtained from microarray analysis of three canine lymphoma cases previously characterized using conventional cytogenetic techniques.

Extranodal lymphoblastic lymphoma of suspected B-cell lineage in the gingiva of a racehorse, accompanied by mandibular osteolysis

A mass developed in the mandibular gingiva of a thoroughbred racehorse. When the horse could no longer eat unassisted, it was killed and immediately autopsied. Macroscopically, the mandible exhibited extensive osteolysis, with only a small amount of bone remaining around the tooth roots. The cut surface of the mass around the mandible consisted of neoplastic medullary tissue, in which osteogenesis was observed. The medullary tissue was composed of pleomorphic medium-sized to large cells, interlaced by collagen bundles. These cells had large, pale, round or ovoid, sometimes cleaved nuclei, with one or two prominent nucleoli. Mitoses were numerous. Electron microscopy showed that the cells in the medullary tissues were similar in shape to undifferentiated lymphocytes. Immunohistochemically, these cells were positive for B-cell associated antigen in the pre-B-cell stage. Our findings suggest that the horse had extranodal lymphoblastic lymphoma of suspected B-cell lineage, possibly originating from the lymphatic system of the gingiva. We consider that the osteolysis resulted from activation of osteoclasts by proliferation of the tumour cells.

Lymphosarcoma in a sea otter (Enhydra lutris)

Lymphoblastic lymphosarcoma involving the mesenteric lymph node and thymus was discovered in a 4 yr old male sea otter (Enhydra lutris). Diagnosis was based on gross and light microscopic studies. The cause of this neoplasm was not determined. This is the first case of lymphosarcoma reported in sea otters.

Molecular cytogenetic analysis of a novel high-grade canine T-lymphoblastic lymphoma demonstrating co-expression of CD3 and CD79a cell markers

We present the molecular cytogenetic analysis of a novel case of canine lymphoma, in a nine-year-old entire male collie cross retriever dog that presented with an enlarged prescapular lymph node. A diagnosis of high-grade lymphoblastic lymphoma was made by histological evaluation of fixed lymph node biopsy sections, whilst immunohistochemical analyses demonstrated co-expression of B- and T-cell antigens (CD79a and CD3) by 95% of lymphomatous cells. Comparative genomic hybridisation (CGH) analysis detected loss of dog chromosomes 11, 30 and 38 and gain of chromosome 36 within the lymphoma biopsy specimen. These findings correlated with direct cytogenetic analysis of tumour metaphases using whole chromosome paint probes representing each of these four chromosomes. This study represents the first report of the combined application of both direct and indirect cytogenetic techniques for the analysis of recurrent chromosome aberrations in canine cancer.

Flow cytometric and immunophenotypic evaluation of acute lymphocytic leukemia in dog bone marrow

Monoclonal antibodies provide powerful tools for detection of lineage-specific markers on hematopoietic cells. We used the combination of cell morphology, cytochemistry, flow cytometric scatter plot analysis, and labeling of cells with 6 monoclonal antibodies to detect and subclassify lymphocytic leukemia in bone marrow from 5 dogs. Antibodies included anti-CD18 (a panleukocyte marker), anti-MHC class II (detects most B and T lymphocytes and monocyte/macrophages), anti-Thy-1 (a pan-T-lymphocyte and monocyte/macrophage marker), anti-CD3 (a pan-T-lymphocyte marker), anti-CD21 (a B-lymphocyte marker), and anti-CD14 (a monocyte/macrophage marker). Of the 5 dogs evaluated, 2 were categorized as acute T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia, 2 as acute non-T, non-B lymphoblastic leukemia, and 1 as acute B-cell lymphoblastic leukemia. Results of this study indicate marked variation in the morphology and immunophenotype of canine lymphocytic leukemia.

Lymphosarcoma in a brown bear (Ursus arctos)

An example of lymphoblastic lymphosarcoma was found in a 7-year-old male brown bear (Ursus arctos) that died after having a 7-month history of depression, anorexia and watery diarrhea. Grossly the mesenteric lymph nodes were enlarged to approximately 4 to 6 times their normal size and histologically diagnosed as lymphoblastic lymphosarcoma. The small intestinal mucosa was corrugated and had severe mural thickening due to infiltrated neoplastic cells. Hepatic metastasis was also noted. This is the first reported case of lymphosarcoma in Ursidae in Korea. As an incidental finding, endogenous lipid pneumonia was noted in the lung.

Multicentric lymphoblastic lymphoma in a loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)

A juvenile female loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) stranded in Gran Canaria was submitted for necropsy. The turtle had exhibited anorexia and lethargy for 2 weeks prior to its death. At necropsy, the thymus was enlarged by two white and firm nodules. White nodules similar to those in thymus were observed in the plastron, thyroid gland, heart, aorta, left lung, spleen, liver, kidneys, stomach, and small intestine. Histopathology revealed a neoplastic proliferation of round cells identified as lymphoid cells. Ultrastructurally, the neoplastic cells were consistent with lymphoblastic cells, and viruses were not detected. The diagnosis was multicentric lymphoblastic lymphoma. This is the first report of a lymphoid neoplasm in a sea turtle.

Effect of fish oil, arginine, and doxorubicin chemotherapy on remission and survival time for dogs with lymphoma: a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled study

BACKGROUND

Polyunsaturated n-3 fatty acids have been shown to inhibit the growth and metastasis of tumors. This double-blind, randomized study was designed to evaluate the hypothesis that polyunsaturated n-3 fatty acids can improve metabolic parameters, decrease chemical indices of inflammation, enhance quality of life, and extend disease free interval and survival time for dogs treated for lymphoblastic lymphoma with doxorubicin chemotherapy.

METHODS

Thirty-two dogs with lymphoma were randomized to receive one of two diets supplemented with menhaden fish oil and arginine (experimental diet) or an otherwise identical diet supplemented with soybean oil (control diet). Diets were fed before and after remission was attained with up to five dosages of doxorubicin. Parameters examined included blood concentrations of glucose, lactic acid, and insulin in response to glucose and diet tolerance tests; alpha-1 acid glycoprotein; tumor necrosis factor; interleukin-6; body weight; amino acid profiles; resting energy expenditure; disease free interval (DFI); survival time (ST); and clinical performance scores.

RESULTS

Dogs fed the experimental diet had significantly (P < 0.05) higher mean serum levels of the n-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6) and eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5) compared with controls. Higher serum levels of C22:6 and C20:5 were associated with lesser (P < 0.05) plasma lactic acid responses to intravenous glucose and diet tolerance testing. Increasing C22:6 levels were significantly (P < 0.05) associated with longer DFI and ST for dogs with Stage III lymphoma fed the experimental diet.

CONCLUSIONS

Fatty acids of the n-3 series normalize elevated blood lactic acid in a dose-dependent manner, resulting in an increase in DFI and ST for dogs with lymphoma.

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia in a juvenile southern black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis minor)

A 21-mo-old female southern black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis minor) developed acute upper respiratory dyspnea in association with lymphadenopathy and marked immature lymphocytosis. A diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia was reached on the basis of the morphologic and cytochemical characteristics of peripheral lymphoblasts. Antineoplastic chemotherapy included administration of cytarabine, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and doxorubicin, with clinical remission achieved 19 days after initiation of treatment. The rhinoceros died, however, of congestive heart failure, presumably secondary to doxorubicin cardiotoxicity and a particular sensitivity of rhinoceros myocardial tissue to free hydroxyl radicals. The pharmacologic effects of any therapeutic agent need to be carefully considered before use in the black rhinoceros, especially within the context of the unique physiology of this species.

Anthracycline cardiotoxicity in a black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis): evidence for impaired antioxidant capacity compounded by iron overload

Two weeks before dying of congestive heart failure, a juvenile black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis minor) received a single low dose of doxorubicin as part of combination chemotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Diffuse hemosiderosis was present at necropsy in a pattern indicative of dietary iron overload, but unique iron-positive degenerative lesions were found in isolated myocardiocytes. Serum analyses revealed hyperferremia, 87% transferrin saturation, and 5- to 10-fold elevations in ferritin concentration, reflecting markedly increased tissue iron stores. Since both toxic and therapeutic effects of anthracyclines are mediated by formation of reactive free radicals via iron-catalyzed reactions, these observations suggest that iron overload may have enhanced myocardial susceptibility to cardiotoxic effects of doxorubicin. Impairments in other myocardial antioxidant defenses, such as deficiencies in catalase and glutathione S-transferase that are known to exist in rhinoceros erythrocytes, may have been underlying factors contributing to an inherent sensitivity of rhinoceros tissues to oxidant-induced injury.

Acute lymphocytic leukemia in a six-month-old western lowland gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla)

A 6-mo-old hand-raised male western lowland gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia based on complete blood count and bone marrow cytology. Clinical signs of the disease were pyrexia, abdominal distention, splenomegaly, and lethargy. Acute lymphocytic leukemia has rarely been reported in this species, and therapy was based on human oncologic protocols. Remission induction chemotherapy resulted in complete clearing of leukemia cells from the bone marrow. Consolidation and maintenance chemotherapy followed. Therapy was facilitated by the use of an infusion port for i.v. treatments and an indwelling lumbar catheter for intrathecal therapy. Side effects associated with chemotherapy were inappetence, moderate alopecia, pancytopenia resulting in sepsis, and bleeding tendency. In spite of initial success, the leukemia reappeared 120 days into treatment. The gorilla was euthanized 7 days later when respiratory distress developed. Intensive care by the animal staff was a key factor in the treatment of this gorilla.

Detection and clinical significance of plasma glutathione-S-transferases in dogs with lymphoma

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to determine if glutathione-S-transferases were detectable in the plasma of dogs and to determine if concentrations of the a- and pi-subtypes were related with tumor response to single agent anthracycline (e.g., doxorubicin) chemotherapy in dogs with lymphoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Plasma was obtained from 10 healthy, normal dogs and from 11 dogs with lymphoma before treatment, 3 weeks after 1 dose of doxorubicin and every 3 weeks thereafter until relapse (the physical detection of recurrent and enlarged peripheral lymph nodes). Plasma concentration of alpha and pi-GST was determined by use of an ELISA technique with well plates pre-coated with IgG[anti-Canine alpha-GST or anti-Human pi-GST].

RESULTS

Mean plasma alpha-GST concentrations did not significantly decline after 1 dose of doxorubicin chemotherapy; however, mean plasma alpha-GST concentrations were markedly increased (p < 0.05) at the time of relapse (the physical detection of recurrent and enlarged peripheral lymph nodes).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study we show that a relationship exists between the plasma alpha-GST concentration and the clinical response of dogs with lymphoma to doxorubicin chemotherapy.

[What is your diagnosis? Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) with leukemic infiltration of the lymph nodes]

The clinical presentation of a dog with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) which resembled lymphosarcoma (LSA) is described. The differences between acute leukemias and LSA are explained and the most common clinical features of ALL reported in the veterinary literature are listed.

[Changes in hemostasis of dogs with acute lymphoblastic leukemia]

Twelve dogs suffering from acute lymphoblastic leukaemia were investigated concerning the following tests: platelet count, prothrombin time (PT, standard test, modified test), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), activity of the individual coagulation factors II, V, VII, X, VIII:C, IX, XI, XII, prekallikrein, and high-molecular weight kininogen, the activity of antithrombin III (AT III), protein C, plasminogen, and alpha 2-antiplasmin as well as concentration of fibrinogen, soluble fibrin and fibrin(ogen) degradation products (FDP). All patients showed a decreased platelet count due to suppression of megakaryopoesis by infiltration of the bone marrow with leukaemic cells. In addition, in most of the patients a moderate activity decrease of one or more individual coagulation factors has been found, especially regarding factor II (median, x0.50 = 51%, p = 0.0001), but also factors X (x0.50 = 71%, p = 0.0003) and XI (x0.50 = 68%, p = 0.0006). This was reflected by the APTT and the PT activity (modified test), which were prolonged or decreased, respectively, in the majority of the cases. Furthermore, the activity of AT III and of plasminogen was distinctly diminished (p < 0.001). Like the concentration of FDP, the plasma level of soluble fibrin was significantly higher than in normal dogs (p < 0.001). This indicates that besides thrombocytopenia disseminated intravascular coagulation occurs frequently in dogs with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and is a main cause for the decreased activity of several plasmatic components of the haemostatic system. The lack of correlation between the concentration of soluble fibrin as an indicator of intravascular coagulation and the total blast cell count (rS = 0.011) shows the importance of other factors like degree of cell lysis as well as participation of organs such as the liver for generation of consumption coagulopathy in dogs with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

Establishment and characterization of a canine T-lymphoblastoid cell line derived from malignant lymphoma

A canine lymphoma cell line (CL-1) was established in culture from tumor cells found in the pleural fluid of a 7-year old female Japanese terrier with thymic form lymphoma. The CL-1 cells were positive for CD45 and MHC class II and negative for CD4, CD5, CD8, Thy-1 and B-cell specific antigen and surface immunoglobulin. The CL-1 cells had a rearranged T-cell receptor beta-chain gene and a germ-line form immunoglobulin gene, indicating that the CL-1 cells represented a monoclonally expanded population of canine alpha beta T-cell lineage.

Polyostotic lymphoma in a young dog: a case report and literature review

An eight-month-old female German shepherd dog had pathological fractures affecting the distal radius and ulna and ribs. Radiographically, there were bilaterally symmetrical osteolytic lesions affecting the metaphyses of multiple long bones, ribs and skull and the dog had splenomegaly. Histologically, the spleen, thymus and bones were infiltrated with large lymphoblastic cells with a high mitotic rate; the diagnosis was lymphoma. Lymphoma primarily affecting bone is an uncommon diagnosis in the dog but it should be considered in young animals with osteolytic lesions affecting multiple bones.

Lymphosarcoma in a brook trout

A 2-yr-old female brook trout, Salvelinus fontinalis, maintained at a state fish hatchery in New York (USA) was culled from the breeding stock. At necropsy, it had a markedly enlarged kidney. On histopathological examination, lymphoblastic lymphoma was diagnosed in several organs including kidney, dorsal musculature, intestines, liver, gill, pseudobranch and ovary. Origin of the tumor was uncertain, although renal involvement could have been the primary site of development.

A potentially misleading presentation and course of acute myelomonocytic leukemia in a dog

A nine-year-old, castrated male golden retriever had lethargy, fever, massive peripheral lymphadenomegaly, hepatosplenomegaly, and pale mucous membranes. There was a marked leukocytosis (456.3 x 10(3) cells/microliter) with 99% blasts; a moderate, nonregenerative anemia; and marked thrombocytopenia. A tentative diagnosis of acute lymphocytic leukemia was made pending results of cytochemical staining. Despite the severity of the laboratory and clinical findings, the dog exhibited a partial response to an induction chemotherapy protocol commonly used for lymphoma. Subsequent cytochemical staining of the original blood and bone-marrow samples resulted in a revised diagnosis of acute myelomonocytic leukemia (AML-M4). Clinicopathological findings, response to treatment, and clinical outcome in this case of canine AML-M4 are discussed.

A cluster of cases of juvenile mediastinal lymphoma in a ferret colony

Three cases of juvenile mediastinal lymphoma developed in a laboratory colony of ferrets. Two ferrets became acutely moribund, and one was found dead with no preceding signs of illness. Splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, and a large thoracic mass were the primary features in each case. All three ferrets had multiorgan metastasis of the tumor. Two ferrets were tested for feline leukemia virus and Aleutian disease virus with negative results.

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia, hypercalcemia, and pseudohyperkalemia in a dog

A 5-month-old sexually intact male Chesapeake Bay Retriever was evaluated for lameness of 2 weeks' duration and lymphocytosis. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia was diagnosed on the basis of results of cytologic and cytochemical evaluation of a bone marrow aspirate. Serum biochemical abnormalities included hypercalcemia and hyperkalemia. Hypercalcemia was likely paraneoplastic; hyperkalemia was believed to be a result of release of potassium from large numbers of lymphocytes in vitro (pseudohyperkalemia). The dog was euthanatized, and necropsy revealed infiltration of the hepatic vasculature and sinusoids, renal parenchyma, mesenteric and peripheral lymph nodes, bone marrow, and iridial tissue with neoplastic cells. Unique features of this case include the young age of the dog and the hypercalcemia and hyperkalemia associated with acute lymphoblastic anemia.

Alterations in lipoprotein profiles in dogs with lymphoma

After a 12-hour fast, blood samples were obtained from 31 dogs with previously untreated lymphoma. Blood samples were also collected from 16 of these dogs after up to 5 treatments with doxorubicin (30 mg/m2 intravenously every 3 weeks). All 16 dogs underwent complete remission. Five dogs were re-evaluated after relapse and after overt signs of cancer cachexia had become clinically apparent. Samples were assayed for 8 quantitative parameters: total cholesterol (T-CH) and total triglyceride (T-TG) concentrations, and the concentration of cholesterol and triglyceride in each of the three major lipoprotein fractions, very-low-density lipoprotein (LDL-CH and LDL-TG), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL-CH and HDL-TG). The results were compared with those from 20 healthy control dogs of similar weight and age before and 3 weeks after being given one dose of doxorubicin (30 mg/m2 intravenously). The administration of doxorubicin to control dogs resulted in a significant (P < .05) decrease in T-CH, LDL-CH, and HDL-CH, as well as a significant increase in VLDL-TG and HDL-TG. When compared with untreated controls, untreated dogs with lymphoma had significantly higher concentrations of VLDL-CH, T-TG, VLDL-TG, LDL-TG, and HDL-TG, and significantly lower concentrations of HDL-CH. HDL-TG and VLDL-TG concentrations from dogs with lymphoma were significantly increased above pretreatment values after relapse and development of overt signs of cancer cachexia.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Concentration of alpha 1-acid glycoprotein in dogs with malignant neoplasia

Serum alpha 1-acid glycoprotein (alpha 1AG) concentrations were determined in 55 dogs with previously untreated, histologically confirmed, high-grade lymphoblastic lymphoma, and in 34 dogs with histologically confirmed nonhematopoietic malignancies (13 dogs with carcinomas and 21 dogs with sarcomas). Serum concentrations were again determined in 32 dogs with lymphoma that were in complete remission 3 weeks after 1 dose of doxorubicin (30 mg/m2 of body surface, i.v.) and in 22 dogs that were still in complete remission 3 weeks after a fourth dose of doxorubicin. For comparison, serum alpha 1AG concentrations were measured in 19 clinically normal (control) dogs of similar weight and age. Eight of the control dogs were given 1 dose of doxorubicin (30 mg/m2, i.v.), and serum alpha 1AG concentrations were measured 3 weeks later. In control dogs, mean serum alpha 1AG concentration after treatment with doxorubicin was not significantly different from mean concentration before treatment. Mean alpha 1AG concentrations in untreated dogs with lymphoma, in dogs with sarcomas, and in dogs with carcinomas were all significantly higher than mean concentration for untreated control dogs. In addition, the mean concentration for dogs with osteosarcomas was significantly higher than mean concentration for untreated control dogs. There were no significant differences in mean serum alpha 1AG concentrations among dogs with different clinical stages of lymphoma (stage IIIa, stage IVa, stage Va). However, mean serum alpha 1AG concentrations were significantly increased for dogs with stages IIIa, IVa, and Va lymphoma, compared with mean concentration for untreated control dogs.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Energy expenditure in dogs with lymphoma fed two specialized diets

BACKGROUND

Cancer-caused cachexia has been reported to be caused in part by an increase in energy expenditure, and diets with nutrient profiles containing 30-50% nonprotein calories as fat instead of carbohydrate may exacerbate this state of inefficient energy utilization.

METHODS

Indirect calorimetry was performed on 22 dogs with high-grade lymphoblastic lymphoma that were randomized into a blind study and fed isocaloric amounts of a high-fat diet (Diet A) or a high-carbohydrate diet (Diet B) before and after remission was attained with up to five doses of doxorubicin chemotherapy (30 mg/m2 intravenously). Indirect calorimetry was also performed on 30 normal dogs for comparison.

RESULTS

During the initial evaluation period, the resting energy expenditure (REE/kg0.75, P < 0.05) and respiratory quotient (RQ, P < 0.05) were significantly lower than in the controls. Six weeks after the start of the study, the REE/kg0.75 and oxygen consumption (VO2/kg0.75) were significantly (P < 0.05) lower in both groups of dogs with lymphoma compared with the controls. The RQ determined 6 weeks after the start of the study for the dogs fed Diet A was significantly (P < 0.05) lower compared with that in the controls evaluated at the same time. When the two groups of dogs with lymphoma were compared with each other, there was no significant difference in any of the outcomes. The REE/kg0.75 and VO2/kg0.75 values were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in the group fed Diet A after the third evaluation period compared with the second evaluation. The REE/kg0.75 and VO2/kg0.75 values were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in the group given Diet B at the fourth evaluation period compared with the fifth.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that energy expenditure of dogs with lymphoma decreases transiently in response to chemotherapy and remission, but these values are less than those determined in normal dogs and not altered significantly by diet.

Different cytogenetic findings in two clinically similar leukaemic dogs

A 4-month-old German Shepherd puppy and a 7-year-old Boxer dog, in which a clinical diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia had been made, were investigated cytogenetically. In the puppy a diploid karyotype was found, but the malignant clone in the Boxer was characterized by an extra metacentric chromosome, apparently formed as the result of a Robertsonian translocation of two chromosomes 1. These findings are discussed against the background of similar cases reported in the literature. Possibly, different types of acute canine leukaemic disease, occurring at different ages, can be distinguished by cytogenetic evaluation.

Lymphoblastic lymphoma in a colony of N:NIH(S)-bg-nu-xid mice

During a 1-year period, 28 animals from a breeding colony of N:NIH(S)-bg-nu-xid mice were discovered to have rapidly enlarging subcutaneous swellings in the ventral, cervical, and axillary regions. Five of the mice also had hind limb paresis. Twenty-two of the mice were heterozygous nude females, five were homozygous nude males, and one was a homozygous nude female. All of the above mice were homo- or hemizygous for the beige and X-linked immunodeficiency mutations. The average age of the mice was 8.3 months. Generalized enlargement of the peripheral and internal lymph nodes was present at the time of necropsy examination. Other lesions commonly noted at necropsy included splenomegaly (15 mice), pale and thickened ventral lumbar spinal musculature (11 mice), and opaque, thickened meninges of the brain (10 mice). Histologic examination consistently disclosed infiltrates of neoplastic lymphoblasts in multiple tissues including lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, and meninges of the brain and spinal cord. The cells were positive for IgG on immunofluorescent staining, suggesting that the tumors were of B cell origin. The neoplasms observed in these mice have several similarities to tumors found in immunodeficient humans, suggesting that these mice may serve as useful animal models of lymphoma.

Isolation and preliminary characterisation of a novel retrovirus isolated from a leukaemic dog

A novel canine retrovirus was isolated from mononuclear cells of the peripheral blood of a leukaemic dog. The main clinical and pathological findings in this dog were lethargy, anorexia, weakness, dyspnoea, severe anaemia, thrombocytopenia and a high white blood cell count, practically all of which were lymphoblasts. The virus was isolated from mononuclear cells obtained from the blood, cocultivated with indicator cells. The virus particles encode a reverse transcriptase with Mg++ preference, have a density in sucrose gradients of 1.16 g ml-1, and induce syncytia in permissive cell cultures such as Himalayan tahr ovary and canine fetal thymus lines. This agent replicates to high titres. The virus exhibits a morphogenesis and morphology typical of lentiviruses. Immunoblotting and competitive radioimmunoassays failed to detect immunological crossreactivity with other representative lentiviruses and oncoviruses of the retrovirus family.

Multicentric osseous lymphoma with spinal extradural involvement in a dog

Multicentric osseous lymphoma involving the ribs and multiple vertebrae was observed in a 7-year-old Siberian Husky. Extradural spinal cord compression was treated by surgical decompressive hemilaminectomy of L1-2 without noticeable improvement of signs neurologic dysfunction. However, palliation of signs of pain was noticed after irradiation in conjunction with chemotherapy and surgical decompression.

Effects of chemotherapy and remission on carbohydrate metabolism in dogs with lymphoma

After a 12-hour fast, blood samples were obtained from 27 dogs with previously untreated lymphoma before and 5, 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes after an intravenous (IV) challenge with 500 mg/kg dextrose. This procedure was done for each dog before up to five treatments with the IV doxorubicin (30 mg/m2 every 3 weeks). All dogs achieved a complete remission. Samples were assayed for glucose, lactate, and insulin concentrations, and results were compared statistically with those from 16 normal control dogs of similar weight and age undergoing an identical dextrose challenge before and 3 weeks after receiving one dose of IV doxorubicin (30 mg/m2). Glucose, lactate, and insulin concentrations did not change significantly in response to glucose challenge in control dogs after doxorubicin chemotherapy. Lactate and insulin concentrations in untreated dogs with lymphoma were significantly higher than controls. This hyperlactatemia and hyperinsulinemia did not improve when dogs with lymphoma were put into remission with doxorubicin chemotherapy. The results indicate that carbohydrate metabolism is altered in dogs with lymphoma, and that these abnormalities do not improve when a complete remission is obtained with doxorubicin chemotherapy.

Malignant lymphoma in ferrets: clinical and pathological findings in 19 cases

The clinical and pathological findings in 19 ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) with malignant lymphoma are reviewed. Peripubescent ferrets had rapidly progressive stage IV high grade immunoblastic or small non-cleaved cell lymphoma. Adult ferrets had stage II or IV low grade diffuse small lymphocytic (DSL) lymphoma, stage IV high grade small non-cleaved cell lymphoma, or stage IV high grade immunoblastic polymorphous (IBP) lymphoma. Three ferrets had concurrent IBP and DSL lymphoma involving different organs. The IBP admixture of immunoblasts, large atypical lymphocytes, Reed-Sternberg-like cells, lymphoblasts and small lymphocytes has been associated with certain retrovirally associated lymphomas and nodal hyperplasias in man, non-human primates and cats. Aleutian disease, a parvovirus-induced lymphoproliferative disease, also involves clinical and histological features similar to certain lymphomas in ferrets. Seven ferrets tested were seronegative for feline leukaemia virus antigen. Only one of eight ferrets was positive for Aleutian parvovirus antibody. The clinical and pathological findings are suggestive of a viral aetiology for certain lymphomas in ferrets.

Diagnosis and treatment of chylothorax associated with lymphoblastic lymphosarcoma in four cats

Chylothorax was diagnosed in 4 cats with lymphoblastic lymphosarcoma. Clinical findings included dyspnea, muffled heart sounds, and noncompressibility of the cranial portion of the thorax. All cats had high pleural fluid triglyceride concentration. Lymphosarcoma was diagnosed by cytologic evaluation of pleural fluid in 3 cats and by histologic evaluation of a cranial cervical lymph node in 1 cat. Two cats were euthanatized prior to any treatment, and the other 2 cats were managed by thoracic drainage, chemotherapy, and/or irradiation.