Neurocentric lymphoma of large granular lymphocytes in a cat

Abstract

Stormy, a 17 year old neutered male domestic shorthair cat presented to the Emergency Service at Cornell University Hospital for Animals for progressive hindlimb paresis. On presentation, Stormy had non-ambulatory paraparesis of the hindlimbs and an initial neurologic assessment was consistent with an L4-S3 lesion worse on the left. Lumbar spinal radiographs were taken which showed a narrowed intervertebral disc space between the L4 and L5 vertebrae, and Stormy was referred for spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of T3 through his sacral spine. The MRI did not reveal the cause of Stormy's paraparesis and upon return to Cornell it was noted that his hindlimb weakness had progressed to his forelimbs. Additional diagnostics were pursued which ultimately revealed a diagnosis of neurocentric lymphoma of large granular lymphocytes via cytologic analysis of cerebrospinal fluid. Although treatment was considered and discussed with the Oncology Service, Stormy was eventually euthanized due to progressive worsening of his condition.