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Malignant histiocytosis
Introduction
- Very rare condition in cats. Fewer than 10 cases reported in literature.
- Characterized by systemic proliferation of atypical tissue macrophages (histiocytes).
- Erythrophagocytosis important characteristic of this disease.
- Signs: anorexia, lethargy.
- Diagnosis: biopsy.
- Treatment: none effective.
- Prognosis: grave.
Presenting signs
- Anorexia.
- Lethargy.
- Anemia.
Age predisposition
- Reported in adult cats.
Pathogenesis
Etiology
- Unknown.
Predisposing factors
General
- FeLV not involved.
Specific
- None known.
Pathophysiology
- Malignant neoplasm of tissue macrophages.
- Rapid progression.
- Characteristic features include presence of multi-nucleated giant cells and erythrophagocytosis.
Timecourse
- Rapid progression, sick less than 1 week before presentation.
Diagnosis
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Treatment
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Prevention
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Outcomes
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Further Reading
Publications
Refereed papers
- Recent references from PubMed and VetMedResource.
- Kraje A C, Patton C S & Edwards D F (2001) Malignant histiocytosis in 3 cats. JVIM 15 (3), 252-256 PubMed.
- Freeman L, Stevens J, Loughman C et al (1995) Clinical vignette - malignant histiocytosis in a cat. JVIM 9 (3), 171-173 PubMed.
- Court E A, Earnest-Koons K A, Barr S C et al (1993) Malignant histiocytosis in a cat. JAVMA 203 (9), 1300-1302 PubMed.
Other sources of information
- Withrow S J and MacEwen E G (1996) Small Animal Clinical Oncology. W B Saunders. (Papers referring to canine histiocytic disease.)