Breslow thickness and Clark level are prognostic factors for human cutaneous melanomas. Breslow thickness is measured with an ocular micrometer from the top of the granular layer of the epidermis to the deepest invasive cell across the broad base of the tumor, while Clark level is based on the anatomical level of invasion through the layers of the dermis. Because of the anatomical differences between humans and dogs, we evaluated the tumor thickness and a modified Clark level in 77 canine primary cutaneous melanocytic tumors. Tumor thickness (using both a traditional and a more convenient system) and modified Clark level were measured and associated with histological diagnosis and clinical outcome. Tumor thickness was a prognostic factor, being greater in animals with shorter overall survival and disease-free time. Cutoffs of 0.95 cm and 0.75 cm defined a higher hazard for an unfavorable outcome and to develop recurrence/metastasis, respectively. Because of an excellent agreement between the 2 methods, it was concluded that tumor thickness could be measured with a ruler when an ocular micrometer is not available. Modified Clark level was not found to be relevant for prognosis. However, we suggest that both tumor thickness and a modified Clark level can be valid additional parameters when histological diagnosis is uncertain. Further studies, including a wider sample population, would be worthwhile to confirm the prognostic significance of these 2 parameters.

An 18-month-old male neutered Staffordshire Bull Terrier presented for chronic sneezing, left-sided rhinorrhea and epistaxis associated with previous nasal planum depigmentation and pruritus. Physical examination did not demonstrate bone asymmetry or depigmentation, but showed reduced airflow through the left nostril. No neurologic abnormalities were present. CT identified severe destruction of the left nasal turbinates and defect of the left cribriform plate, with protrusion of the left olfactory lobe into the caudal part of the nasal cavity. Rhinoscopy did not identify fungal plaques or foreign material, and nasal biopsies were consistent with lymphoplasmacytic destructive rhinitis. Tissue cultures were negative. Clinical signs completely resolved after 2 weeks of doxycycline treatment and did not recur. There was no development of neurologic abnormalities in the 12 months after diagnosis. This is the first case report of canine meningoencephalocele presenting with rhinitis-associated signs without detectable neurologic abnormalities.

Funding informationLinnaeus Veterinary Limited supported the costs of the open access publication charges.

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