Clinical, pathologic, and molecular characterization of a non‐metastatic multicentric cutaneous mast cell tumor in a cow

Abstract

AbstractCutaneous mast cell tumors are rarely reported in cattle. Although mutations in the c‐KIT gene have been shown to play a central role in the oncogenesis of canine mast cell tumors, few data are available in cattle. This report describes the clinical, histologic, immunohistochemical, and genetic features of a multicentric cutaneous mast cell tumor in an adult cow. An 11‐year‐old Prim'Holstein cow was presented for a 5‐month history of multiple skin nodules. Cytologic and histologic analyses of the nodules led to a diagnosis of mast cell tumors. Immunohistochemical analysis for KIT expression showed a moderate to strong signal in neoplastic mast cells with a cytoplasmic and membranous pattern. Sequencing of the c‐KIT gene coding sequence revealed no mutation. Despite partial response after corticosteroid treatment, euthanasia was elected. No metastases to the lymph nodes, spleen, and liver were identified at post‐mortem and histologic examinations.