» Rat Guide     » Health Guide     » Care Guide     » Medication Guide     » Breeding Guide    

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Figure 2

Figure 2: Squamous cell carcinoma at base of the ear involving Zymbal’s gland
Case history and photos

History

Ramekin, age 22 months, presented with a large lump on his face just below the right ear.

Clinical Signs

The lump appeared virtually overnight, growing to a diameter of around 1/2 inch. It was believed, at that time, to be an abscess. His general condition was otherwise healthy.

Initial Exam

Physical examination by the Vet revealed a very hard lump that didn’t move freely. Upon X-ray, no bone involvement or other features were apparent. Needle aspiration was performed and serosanguinous fluid obtained showing mostly red blood cells, macrophages (cells that have the ability to ingest and destroy particulate substances, such as bacteria) and some seg neutrophils (segmented white blood cell).

Diagnosis

Possible cyst.

Possible tumor formation.

Treatment

Treatment was initally begun by having the cyst drained, and starting a course of enrofloxacin (Baytril), and Cortisone (dexamethasone).

A few days following the intial treatment, the cyst again returned, and drainage was repeated.

DSMO was prescribed, and applied daily to the area of cyst removal. The cyst reappeared after two days.

Follow-up

At this time a recurrent hydrocyst due to trauma to the face, or Zymbal’s gland tumour possibly squamous cell in nature was suspected and the decision made to do surgery.

Exploratory surgery was performed:

“The cyst explored, was invasive of muscle, nerves, and blood vessels around the ear base. Invaded ear brought up pus and blood. The area was debrided and flushed. As much of the tissue was curretted as possible. A drain inserted in place, too leave for 5 days if possible.”

Outcome

The cyst returned within 3 days post op. It was now filling with fluid rapidly and drainage could be seen coming from the ear canal and incision drain. The tumour itself was visibly growing larger and rapidly below the cyst. Daily draining of the cyst was performed for several days and during this time the Ramekin continued to be otherwise active and eating.

One week after surgery the tumour/cyst hemorrhaged profuse bright red blood from the ear canal, the surgical incision, and the opening made for the drain that had been inserted in the cyst. The decision was made that Ramekin not be allowed to suffer, and was euthanased the following day.



Ramekin, The Bear

Photo #1: Depicts developing growth
noticed here on side of face.
Ramekin, The Bear

Photo #2: Closer camera view of growth.
Ramekin, The Bear

Photo #3: Tumor development can be clearly seen using the ear and eye as a marker.

Photos shown here courtesy of Al and Robyn Arthur, of The Dapper Rat, http://www.dapper.com.au
Collaborated case study by, Dr Larissa Ladyko B.V.Sc, and Robyn Arthur.

Diagram drawing of Zymbal’s gland location in rats http://www.item.fraunhofer.de/reni/trimming/manus.php?mno=034.

Posted on June 26, 2003, 12:51, Last updated on April 29, 2007, 18:44 | Figures



Rat Guide Logo Copyright © 2000 - 2008 by
All rights reserved.
All other written and visual materials used by permission of specific authors for the sole use of the Rat Guide.
Brought to you by KuddlyKorner4u
See Logos page for linking to the Rat Guide.
Rat Guide brought to you by KuddlyKorner4u