Case Study

Histiocytic sarcoma of the spleen diagnosed by FNA in a 13 year old FS Bassett hound dog

A 13-year-old FS Basset Hound was presented for weakness, lethargy, possible pancreatitis, and vomiting. CBC and serum biochemistry showed no significant changes. After 48 hours of fluid therapy, the patient was stable but showed polypnea and appeared anxious.

Sonographic Differential Diagnosis

This is suggestive for multi centric target type neoplasia in the spleen and liver. Suspect sarcoma or similar neoplasia. Minor possibility of embolic disease and nodular hyperplasia. Fine-needle aspirates or ultrasound-guided biopsies of the spleen and liver would be indicated. Splenitis is possible but less likely. Guarded prognosis.

Image Interpretation

The spleen in this patient presented multiple, mixed hypoechoic nodular masses that are consistent with target lesions. The splenic contour was irregular with some scalloping of the splenic capsule. The splenic masses measured 2.8 cm, 1.9 cm, and 1.3 cm. There was no evidence of rupture noted. There was no cavitation noted.

DX

Histiocytic sarcoma

Outcome

The patient was humanely euthanized due to a decline in quality of life.

Clinical Differential Diagnosis

Addison’s disease. Hypotension – fluid loss, high vagal tone. Cardiac disease – pericardial effusion, myocardial failure, myocarditis. Respiratory disease – pneumonia, fibrosis, pleural effusion. Pancreatitis. Neoplasia – liver, spleen, stomach.