Analysis of Published Amphibian Neoplasia Case Reports

et al. 2022

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This multi-institutional collaborative study of neoplasia in snakes reviewed medical records of snakes at each facility to determine species prevalence, survival, and methods of treatment. Complete species numbers of snakes were also collected at each facility. In total, 65 species, 133 snakes, and 149 unique neoplasias were included in this study. Affected species, age, sex, and their tumor prevalence, tumor type and location, metastasis, treatment, and survival data are reported. The highest species-specific tumor prevalence was in Common or Northern Watersnakes (Nerodia sipedon) (30.8%, n = 4 of 13), Eastern Diamond-Backed Rattlesnakes (Crotalus adamanteus) (26.3%, n = 5 of 19), and Timber rattlesnakes (Crotalus horridus) (22.7%, n = 5 of 22). Malignant tumors predominated (86.6%, n = 129 of 149) with soft tissue sarcomas being the most common (30.2%, n = 45 of 149). Snakes with malignant neoplasia, metastases, or indeterminate presence of metastases were statistically more likely to die from their neoplasms than snakes having either benign neoplasia or no diagnosed metastases (p < 0.05). Gender, taxonomic family, and species of those evaluated did not significantly affect the outcome of snakes with neoplasia. Only 27.1% (n = 36 of 133) of snakes received a reported form of treatment and, for those treated, surgical excision was the most common treatment modality. There was not a significant difference in outcome based on treatment; however, surgery and chemotherapy were associated with death from a cause other than their tumor.

Section: Discussionsupporting

confidence: 92%

A Multi-Institutional Collaboration to Understand Neoplasia, Treatment and Survival of Snakes

Duke

Harrison

et al. 2022

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“…Histopathological diagnoses were reviewed by one of the authors (BT). Neoplasia nomenclature and classifications were standardized according to organ and cell type ( Supplementary Table S1 ) using the scheme developed by the Exotic Species Cancer Research Alliance ( ) [ 17 ], which was based on the National Cancer Institute Thesaurus ( ) and established veterinary nomenclature in Tumors of Domestic Animals [ 18 ]. As has been previously grouped [ 9 ], and recognizing the association of reproductive hormones with the development of mammary tumors, neoplasias of the mammary gland, uterus, gonads, and male accessory sex glands were included in the “Reproductive” category.…”

Section: Methodsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Taxonomic Distribution of Neoplasia among Non-Domestic Felid Species under Managed Care

Muñoz²,

Gutiérrez³

et al. 2020

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As evidenced by numerous case reports from zoos, neoplasia in felids is common, but most reports are limited to Panthera species in North America or Europe. In order to obtain a wider epidemiologic understanding of neoplasia distribution, necropsy records at seven facilities (USA, Mexico, Colombia, Peru, and Brazil) were evaluated. In contrast to others, this study population (195 cases, 16 species), included many non-Panthera felids. Overall neoplasia prevalence was 28.2% (55/195). Panthera species had a higher prevalence of neoplasia than non-Panthera species (52.5%; vs. 13.0%). Lions (66.7%), jaguars (55.0%), and tigers (31.3%) had the highest species-specific prevalence of neoplasia. Neoplasms in Panthera species were more frequently malignant than in non-Panthera (86.1% vs. 55.6%). The systems most commonly affected were the reproductive, hematolymphoid, and respiratory. The range of management conditions and more varied genetic backgrounds support a robust taxonomic pattern and suggest that the reported propensity for neoplasia in jaguars may have a genetic basis at a taxonomic level higher than species, as lions and tigers also have high prevalence. Given the high prevalence of neoplasia and high likelihood of malignancy, routine medical exams in all nondomestic felids, but Panthera species in particular, should include thorough assessments of any clinical signs of neoplasia.

“…The Exotic Species Cancer Research Alliance (ESCRA) is a neoplasia database established to collect and record neoplasia cases in non-domestic species across facilities, including those not reported in the literature [ 56 , 57 ]. Cases of neoplasia and corresponding treatments are collected from multiple zoological and aquatic institutions, as well as veterinary teaching hospitals and private practices.…”

Section: Uterine Leiomyoma As a Case Study To Understand Potential Re...mentioning

confidence: 99%

Of Elephants and Other Mammals: A Comparative Review of Reproductive Tumors and Potential Impact on Conservation

Abegglen

Harrison

et al. 2022

Reproductive tumors can impact conception, pregnancy, and birth in mammals. These impacts are well documented in humans, while data in other mammals are limited. An urgent need exists to understand the reproductive impact of these lesions in endangered species, because some endangered species have a documented high prevalence of reproductive tumors. This article documents that the prevalence of both benign and malignant neoplasia differs between African and Asian elephants, with Asian elephants more frequently diagnosed and negatively affected by both. The prevalence of these tumors across mammalian species is compared, and impact plus treatment options in human medicine are reviewed to inform decision making in elephants. Evidence suggests that reproductive tumors can negatively impact elephant conservation. Future studies that document reproductive outcomes, including the success of various treatment approaches in elephants with tumors will benefit conservation efforts.