Bilateral ovarian teratoma in a free-living Iberian red deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus)

Authors: Gortazar C, Hofle U, Vicente J
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 52, Issue 1, pp 44-45, Feb 2004
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Deer, Livestock, Production animal, Ruminant
Subject Terms: Genital system/gonads, Reproduction, Neoplasia, Oncology, Pathology, Reproduction - female
Article class: Clinical Communication

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Abstract: CASE HISTORY: A 8.5x5.7x5 cm irregularly shaped mass was detected in the location of the left ovary of a 9-year-old Iberian red deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus) hind shot during a hunting drive.
PATHOLOGICAL FINDINGS: On the cut surface, the mass consisted of numerous fluid- or keratin-filled inter-communicating cysts, separated by connective tissue containing solid nodules of dark-coloured foci and hairy skin. The right ovary was of normal size, but contained a 1.5 cm mass of hairy skin and spongy structures. Histologically, the large mass comprised differentiated structures such as cartilage, fibrous connective tissue, smooth muscle, stratified squamous keratinised epithelium, cuboidal multi-layered and respiratory epithelium, clusters of pigment-laden cells, hair follicles, nervous tissue and glandular structures. The hind had a grossly and microscopically normal uterus that contained a 449.5 g female fetus.
DIAGNOSIS: Bilateral mature ovarian teratomas.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This case describes the first known description of an ovarian teratoma in a free-living red deer. The tumour had unique features, such as bilateral presence and concurrency with a normal pregnancy.
KEY WORDS: Iberian red deer, Cervus elaphus hispanicus, ovary, teratoma

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