A possible genetic basis for juvenile lymphosarcoma in Manx kittens

Authors: Aberdein D, Fairley RA, Thompson KG, Munday JS
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 58, Issue 2, pp 111, Apr 2010
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Cat
Subject Terms: Circulatory system/haematology, Genetics, Neoplasia, Oncology
Article class: Abstract

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Abstract:

It is estimated that between 5 and 10% of human cancers are caused by inherited genetic mutations. In humans, multiple familial cancer syndromes have been described, and in many cases the underlying genetic alterations are well-defined. In contrast, breed predispositions to specific cancers are rarely reported in animals and, in most cases, the causative genetic alterations remain unclear. Further, opportunities to investigate potential cases of familial neoplasia are rare. In 2009, 3/5 Manx kittens from a single litter developed multicentric T-cell lymphosarcoma between 6 to 8 weeks of age. To investigate the case further, the same mating was repeated, with 1/6 kittens from a second litter developing multicentric T-cell lymphosarcoma at 6 weeks of age. The occurrence of multiple cases of lymphosarcoma in successive litters suggests a genetic predisposition to the development of this neoplasm. Other than an increased occurrence of mediastinal lymphosarcoma in Oriental breeds, familial predispositions to lymphosarcoma have not been reported previously in cats. Additional research of this familial lymphosarcoma may enable a better understanding of the development, progression and treatment of lymphosarcoma both in the present case and more generally in cats and humans.

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