Cytodiagnosis of Hemangiosarcoma in Dogs

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Published : Jan. 14, 2025.

 

 

Hemangiosarcoma (HSA) is a highly cancer of the vascular endothelial cells, accounting for up to 7% of all tumors and 12-21% of all canine mesenchymal neoplasms. The cause of the disease is still unknown, but it was initially assumed that HSAs came from altered endothelium cells.

 

In this study, two cases of hemangiosarcoma were diagnosed through cytological approaches in a Labrador and a German Shepherd. The labrador showed normal hemoglobin, total leukocyte count, and total erythrocyte count, along with relative neutrophilia and eosinophilia. In the case of the German shepherd, there was severe anemia with excellent regeneration of RBCs (nucleated RBC), neutrophilic leucocytosis, and a large number of acanthocytes and schistocytes also seen. Thrombocytopenia was observed in both cases.

 

To investigate the hematological changes, whole blood (about 2 mL) was collected from the cephalic vein in the EDTA vial and clot activator for hematological and serum biochemical examination such as alkaline phosphatase (ALKP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) respectively. Fluid collected by paracentesis was submitted for biochemical and cytological examination. After centrifugation, the sediment was smeared on slides. Blood and peritoneal fluid slides were stained with Leishman stain for cytological examination.

 

Hemangiosarcoma in canines is often characterized by pleural and peritoneal effusions, with most being hemorrhagic. Cytologic smears are examined for traits such as cytoplasmic punctate vacuolation, erythrophagocytosis, background neutrophilic leukocytosis, and cellularity (exclusively cancerous cells). The tumor cells are highly pleomorphic and exhibit epithelioid characteristics, with a single nucleus and coarse to lacey chromatin patterns. Neoplastic cells have defined cellular boundaries and low to moderate amounts of basophilic cytoplasm. Background neutrophilic leucocytosis is often observed, and erythrophagocytosis is found in macrophages.

 

Based on serum biochemical and USG findings, it can be concluded that the liver was the primary site of origin for hemangiosarcoma in the case of the Labrador. Effusions into body cavities (such as the thorax, abdomen, and pericardial sac) are brought on by increased vascular permeability or hydrostatic pressure, changed oncotic pressure, or compromised lymphatic drainage. Effusion cytology is comparatively affordable and non-invasive, often useful in making an accurate diagnosis or aiding in the planning and prognosis of diagnostic studies.

 

Hemangiosarcoma can have a very heterogeneous cytologic appearance, and additional criteria can be used to support a suspected diagnosis. Thus, this rare case of hemangiosarcoma in canine was reported, and cytology aided in the preliminary diagnosis of this neoplastic condition.