AN OVERVIEW OF RECENT OSTEOSARCOMA CASES IN RABBITS (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Abstract

Osteosarcoma is a condition affecting several species. In rabbits, it has been described to be relatively rare and to occur mainly in older animals. The condition is usually treated with surgery, but has a very poor prognosis. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy have been sporadically performed. The limited number of published cases makes it difficult to make sound conclusions about the epidemiology and treatment of the disease. Additionally, no prospective studies have been conducted to assess treatment strategies. Ten additional cases published after 2010 are summarized in the current review. The information included is generally in line with previous reports. The condition occurs in several breeds, in several locations in both the axial and appendicular condition. There were frequent pulmonary metastasis and diagnosis was usually made with radiography. Rabbit OSA is usually treated with surgery, with a poor prognosis.This means further research is needed to get further insights into the epidemiology and novel treatment strategies.Conclusively, recent cases of rabbit OSA mainly supports information from previous case reports. However, the body of literature is still very limited. This makes it difficult to make sounds conclusions and warrants further research in the epidemiology and treatment of the condition.