Case Study

Lymphoma in a 4 year old FS Labrador Retriever mix dog

A 4-year-old FS Labrador cross was presented for evaluation of swollen popliteal and sublumbar lymph nodes. Abnormalities on CBC and serum biochemistry were thrombocytopenia, eosinophilia, elevated creatinine and elevated globulins.

A 4-year-old FS Labrador cross was presented for evaluation of swollen popliteal and sublumbar lymph nodes. Abnormalities on CBC and serum biochemistry were thrombocytopenia, eosinophilia, elevated creatinine and elevated globulins.

Sonographic Differential Diagnosis

Suggestive for early infiltrative splenic and hepatic lymph node pattern, possible involvement of the liver. Suspect lymphoma or similar neoplasia. Lymphadenitis or infectious disease is also possible.

Image Interpretation

The liver was mildly swollen in contour with increased portal markings and hepatic lymphadenopathy at 5.23 x 2.84 cm. This was sampled by ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspirates. The spleen was mildly swollen and micronodular in this patient with subtle changes and consistent with early infiltrative disease. No masses were noted. Mild capsular swelling was noted. Fine-needle aspirates were performed to rule out underlying lymphoma or causes of splenitis or hypersplenism.

DX

Cytology revealed lymphoma with hepatic node involvement.

Outcome

The patient was started on chemotherapy and seems to be doing well.

Clinical Differential Diagnosis

Lymphoma; Lymphadenitis – bacterial, protozoal, sepsis

Sampling

Ultrasound-guided FNAs were obtained. Cytology revealed lymphoma with periportal node involvement. Splenic involvement is unknown as lymphoid cells are too mixed.