Atypical Presentation of Canine Lymphoma:Non-Traumatic Splenic Rupture in Diffuse Small B-Cell Lymphoma

Author: Hayoung RYU ¹ ; ARom CHO ; Seongwon HEO ; Seulgi HWANG ; DoHyeon YU ; Hyeona BAE
Author Information

1. College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea
Publication Type:Case Report
From: Journal of Veterinary Clinics 2024;41(6):389-395
CountryRepublic of Korea
Language:English
Abstract: Small B-cell lymphoma typically has a more favorable prognosis compared to diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Here, we present the first documented case of canine DSBCL characterized by extensive lymphocyte infiltration in the spleen, leading to splenic rupture and death. A 10-year-old neutered male Shih Tzu presented with lethargy, skin lesions, and generalized lymphadenopathy. On the day of admission, the dog experienced shock, accompanied by bradycardia and hypotension, and subsequently died. Necropsy confirmed splenic rupture, and cytology, histopathology, and immunophenotyping of the lymph nodes confirmed the diagnosis of diffuse small B cell lymphoma (DSBCL). Similar neoplastic cells were identified in the spleen and inguinal skin, establishing a diagnosis of stage V lymphoma with multi-organ infiltration. This case shows that while non-DLBCL B-cell lymphomas are often indolent, certain subtypes, such as DSBCL, may exhibit aggressive behavior, emphasizing the need to carefully evaluate the extent of infiltration in such cases.