Splenectomy for the successful management of haemangiosarcoma
Author(s):
Gayathri Sanjeev, Anoop R and Ananthapadmanabhan TP
Abstract:
Haemangiosarcoma (HSA), is a malignant neoplasm of vascular endothelial origin. The article describes the complete splenectomy that was performed on a 10-year-old male Labrador Retriever from Kerala's Multi Speciality Veterinary Hospital in Kudappanakunnu due to a case of splenic haemangiosarcoma. The animal was presented with the history of frequent vomiting, hyporexia, and lethargy. The animal was dull and its physiological parameters were normal. Palpation of the abdomen, however, indicated a huge, painful mass on the left side. A massive mass was seen on the lateral abdominal radiograph, which suggested splenomegaly and caused the intestinal loops to shift dorsally. Regions of hypoechogenicity in the splenic area were identified by abdominal ultrasonography. The haematology and serum analysis revealed elevated ALP levels and moderate neutrophilia. The decision to perform an exploratory laparotomy was made in light of the patient's history, clinical examination, and diagnostic imaging. An elongated, about to rupture mass on spleen was identified and total splenectomy, which was the only option to save the patient was performed under general anaesthesia. Blood clots were visible within the splenic mass upon macroscopic inspection and on histopathologic examination revealed microscopically pleomorphic neoplastic endothelial cells forming blood filled channels and focal areas of inflammatory cells suggestive of splenic haemangiosarcoma. Every other day that surgery was performed, haematological assessments were performed. All blood values were within the normal range on the seventh post-operative day, and the animal's recovery went smoothly. The case motivates the choice to perform canine splenectomy as a life-saving treatment.
How to cite this article:
Gayathri Sanjeev, Anoop R, Ananthapadmanabhan TP. Splenectomy for the successful management of haemangiosarcoma. Pharma Innovation 2024;13(9):88-91.