An esophageal mass in a Beagle dog

Abstract

This clinical report describes a rhabdomyosarcoma, diagnosed by histopathology, in the esophagus of an 11 year old male castrated beagle dog. Clinical signs associated with the mass were progressive regurgitation of food and liquid. The patient also suffered from chronic bronchitis, chronic coughing and recurring pneumonia. Diagnostic testing included bronchoscopy, endoscopy, trans-tracheal wash evaluation (cytology and culture), thoracic radiographs, abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, fluoroscopy, bloodwork, urinalysis and histopathology. The surgical excision and post-operative treatment/diagnostic testing are described, as well as the histopathology process of diagnosis. Canine esophageal histology, previously documented canine esophageal tumors and canine rhabdomyosarcoma is discussed.