Successful management of acinar adenocarcinoma by pulmonary lobectomy in a pet rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Abstract

Background

Primary lung neoplasms have rarely been reported in rabbits. The present case describes the diagnosis and successful surgical management of acinar adenocarcinoma in a pet rabbit.

Case description

An 8-year-old neutered male rabbit presented with signs of dyspnea that had worsened over several days. Thoracic radiography revealed a soft-tissue opacity in the right medial pulmonary lobe, which was subsequently confirmed on thoracic ultrasound. Computed tomography was performed, revealing a heterogeneous ovoid parenchymal mass. This mass was in contact with the caudal vena cava and the right diaphragmatic pilar. Fine-needle aspiration was performed, and the cytology results were consistent with an epithelial neoplasm in the right medial lobe. Right lateral thoracotomy and lobectomy of the right medial pulmonary lobe were performed. The patient recovered uneventfully, with improved appetite and fecal output. Histological analysis of the mass was consistent with acinar adenocarcinoma. Regular follow-up radiographs did not reveal any significant abnormalities.

Conclusions and case relevance

This case report describes the successful clinical management of an acinar adenocarcinoma of the lung treated by thoracic surgery in a pet rabbit. Primary pulmonary neoplasm should be a differential in rabbits presenting with respiratory signs.