Mixed mammary gland tumor in a 5 year old German Shepherd bitch

Abstract

A 15year old German shepherd bitch weighing 25 kilograms was presented to the University of Nairobi, Small Animal clinic with a history of an enlarging swelling on the ventral abdominal area. Upon examination, there was an ovoid subcutaneous mass measuring at approximately 3cm by 1.5cm located on the right ventral abdominal area between the 2nd and 3rd mammary gland. Physical examination showed the mass to be firm, non-ulcerated, painless and freely movable. Thoracic radiographs, ultrasonography, hematological and fluid analysis of the lesion were performed to achieve a diagnosis. Ultrasonograhic examination of the mass revealed anechoic zone at the centre of the mass and hyperechoic zones spread throughout the mass suggestive of mineral deposits. A brown and hazy fluid was obtained upon centesis and culture revealed no growth. The bitch was spayed and the mass excised. Histology confirmed the mass as a mammary gland tumor.