Randolph Baral, BVSc, MACVSc (Feline); Mark Krockenberger, BSc(Vet), BVSc, PhD GradCertEdStud, MACVSc, MASM; Darren Foster, BSc, BVMS, PhD, FACVSc (Feline); Melissa Catt, BVSc; Karon Hoffmann, BVSc, MVSc, DVCS, PhD
Hepatic small cell lymphosarcoma was recognised histologically in three cats. All three cats were neutered male Domestic Shorthairs (DSH) and ages at diagnosis were 12 years for two cats and 15 years for the other. The most consistent presenting signs were inappetence and weight loss. Serum biochemistry hepatic enzymes were elevated in only two of the cats. Haematology was unremarkable in all three. One cat was positive for FeLV antigen by ELISA testing. Ultrasonography was performed on two cats and diffuse nodular changes were recognised in each. Cytological examinations of hepatic fine needle aspirates were performed (as well as histological examination) in two cats and these were also consistent with small cell lymphoma. One cat also had small cell lymphosarcoma recognised in the small intestine and mesenteric lymph nodes. For the other cats, pathology appeared to be confined to the liver. Immunohistochemistry was performed for all cases. All three cats were treated with chlorambucil and prednisolone and all three are still alive at time of submission (greater than one year after diagnosis for two cats). Hepatic small cell lymphoma does not appear to be previously described in cats.