Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Dog with multiple skin lumps diagnosed as Merkel cell carcinoma
By Joiner, K S et al.·Published in Veterinary pathology·2010·Department of Pathobiology, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Multicentric cutaneous neuroendocrine (Merkel cell) carcinoma in a dog.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A 5-year-old male Keeshond was found to have multiple firm lumps on his skin, which were diagnosed as a type of skin cancer called Merkel cell carcinoma. This cancer is usually more aggressive than typical skin tumors in dogs. The vet noted that the cancer affected the deeper layers of the skin, which is concerning. Treatment options weren't detailed, but early detection is crucial for managing this type of cancer effectively. It's important for pet owners to monitor their dogs for unusual lumps and consult their veterinarian if they notice any changes.
People also search for: dog skin lumps · Keeshond cancer symptoms · Merkel cell carcinoma treatment in dogs
Abstract
Multicentric cutaneous neuroendocrine (Merkel cell) carcinoma was diagnosed in a 5-year-old castrated male Keeshond dog with multiple firm nodular cutaneous masses. The neoplastic tissue locally effaced the periadnexal and deep dermis and consisted of densely cellular confluent clusters of round to polygonal cells supported by a delicate fibrovascular stroma. The cells were moderately immunoreactive with chromogranin A, synaptophysin, and cytokeratin. Ultrastructurally, the cells had characteristic membrane-bound dense-core neuroendocrine granules approximately 120 nm in diameter and randomly dispersed throughout the cytoplasm. Effacement of dermal structures and multicentric distribution suggested low-grade malignant phenotype. These findings contrast with the typical benign behavior of canine cutaneous neuroendocrine tumors.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20634406/