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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Ultrasonographic characteristics of splenic and hepatic lymphosarcoma in three horses.

Journal:
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
Year:
1992
Authors:
Chaffin, M K et al.
Affiliation:
Department of Large Animal Medicine and Surgery · United States
Species:
horse

Plain-English summary

In this study, three horses were diagnosed with lymphosarcoma, a type of cancer, after showing signs like not eating, losing weight, and being very tired. Ultrasound imaging of their spleens and livers revealed various abnormalities, such as large masses and nodules in the spleen and unusual spots in the liver. The diagnosis was confirmed through biopsies taken during the ultrasound and later by examining the horses after they passed away. The findings from the ultrasounds matched well with what was seen during the necropsy. Overall, the treatment for these horses did not work, as they were diagnosed with advanced cancer.

Abstract

Splenic and hepatic ultrasonography were beneficial for diagnosis of lymphosarcoma in 3 horses with anorexia, weight loss, and lethargy. Ultrasonographic abnormalities of the spleen included a large, complex, hypoechoic mass in 1 horse, multiple well-marginated, hypoechoic nodules in 1 horse, and diffuse hyperechogenicity in another horse. Ultrasonographic abnormalities of the liver included a spherical, hypoechoic nodule in 1 horse and diffuse hyperechogenicity in another. Histologic examination of ultrasound-guided biopsy specimens or aspirates revealed lymphosarcoma. Necropsy findings confirmed diagnosis of lymphosarcoma in all horses. Necropsy findings of the liver and spleen correlated well with antemortem ultrasonographic images.

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Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1399778/