Objective

To describe laser ablation of a tracheal mast cell tumor (MCT) in a dog.

Case Presentation

An 11-year-old, previously healthy, mixed-breed female dog was referred due to a suspected tracheal mass. The dog presented to the referring clinic due to inspiratory dyspnea and cough of three days duration. On presentation to the referring veterinarian, the dog was severely dyspneic and was intubated immediately. Thoracic radiographs revealed a mid-tracheal soft-tissue opacity and endoscopy confirmed the presence of a tracheal mass. CBC and serum chemistry were unremarkable. The dog was transported with an endotracheal tube, and was placed on positive-pressure ventilation immediately on presentation. Tracheoscopy revealed a mid-tracheal mass connected to the dorsal tracheal membrane. Partial excision was performed using diode laser ablation (60 watt, 800 micron-fiber, Vetrix, China).

Histopathological examination was consistent with an MCT. Due to the unusual location, toluidine-blue staining was performed to confirmed diagnosis. The dog recovered uneventfully and was discharged on day 2 with a mild cough. Oncological consultation was performed; however, the owners elected conservative treatment with glucocorticoids, anti-histamines and omeprazole. On follow-up examination 6 months later the dog was doing well; however, due to glucocorticoid side effects a dose reduction was performed. Repeat thoracic radiographs and tracheoscopy were offered and denied. The dog was still doing well one year after the procedure.

Discussion

To our knowledge, this is the first description of a tracheal MCT excised by laser ablation in a dog. Based on this report, long-term survival is possible despite incomplete excision and conservative treatment alone.

E-mail: kelmere1@gmail.com