Name
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) in a Rabbit: A Case Report
Chakchalat Yoopatthanawong
Description
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly lethal disease, especially in its advanced stages, and therapeutic options are often limited. While extensive research has been conducted on HCC using animal models such as rodents, rabbits, non-human primates, and pigs to investigate the disease and assess therapeutic approaches, there remains a notable gap in clinical case studies. A 9-year-old intact male Thai mixed breed rabbit was presented for weight loss with normal appetite for several months. Initial diagnostic tests revealed anemia (HCT = 27.51%), a slight elevation in ALT (120 U/L), and mild hypoalbuminemia (2.5 g/dL). CT scan images indicated the presence of numerous small linear mineral foreign bodies (approximately 5.7 - 8.8 mm in size) located cranially within the abdominal cavity. Subsequently, the owner elected to proceed with an exploratory laparotomy and biopsy. Surgical resection was carried out, resulting in the excision of a liver section measuring 0.5 × 1.5 × 1 cm. The excised tissue exhibited firm consistency, an irregular shape, and a pale yellow-white color. The liver displayed a predominantly multilobulated hepatic mass that had invaded into the normal hepatic parenchyma. Multiple regions within the mass exhibited extensive necrosis and hemorrhage. The pathological diagnosis confirmed hepatocellular carcinoma. The animal was hospitalized with medical treatment for four days following the surgery but unfortunately did not survive. Given the limited treatment options for advanced HCC, exploring combination chemotherapy and immunotherapy regimens is essential to improve clinical outcomes.
Session Type
Poster