Peripheral neuroblastoma in a Golden Retriever: case report

Abstract

Neuroblastomas are peripheral tumors of neuroectodermal origin that affect the nervous system and are considered rare in dogs. They can develop in various parts of the body, mainly involving the abdominal region, adrenal glands and the mandibulopharyngeal area. We aimed to describe a case of neuroblastoma in a 1-year and 8-month-old Golden Retriever, whose computed tomography (CT) scan identified an abdominal neoformation measuring 11cm. Additional tests, including total blood count, biochemical profile, abdominal ultrasound, electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, and CT, were performed. The patient underwent an exploratory laparotomy 35 days after the first ultrasound, revealing that the neoformation had increased in size, reaching approximately 20cm. Due to its involvement with major blood vessels, surgical removal was deemed unfeasible, and an incisional biopsy was performed intraoperatively. Histopathological analysis indicated a poorly differentiated neuroendocrine neoplasia, and immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of neuroblastoma. A single dose of mitoxantrone (6mg/m²) was administered, but no clinical response was observed. As the neoplasm progressed, the patient rapidly deteriorated, developing paralysis of the pelvic limbs and severe abdominal pain, ultimately leading to euthanasia. Neuroblastoma is a highly aggressive and extremely rare neoplasm in dogs. Given the limited literature on the subject, further research is needed to better understand its pathogenesis and explore innovative therapeutic approaches that may improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for affected animals.