Pathomorphological and Differential Diagnostic Features of Canine Splenic Lymphoma

Abstract

Introduction. The lack of veterinary histological classifications based on tumor histogenesis complicates the morphological diagnosis of canine lymphoma. Diagnostic challenges primarily arise from: (1) the diversity of cellular variants originating from cells at different differentiation stages, (2) the common origin of lymphoid cells, and (3) multiple etiological factors in tumor development. This necessitates a comprehensive study of various lymphoma morphological types to identify their differential diagnostic features and histogenetic origins.
Aim. To develop a scientifically grounded approach for morphological diagnosis of canine lymphomas based on the principle of cellular histogenesis.
Materials and Methods. Histological blocks containing canine spleen tissue were selected. Tissue sections were prepared using microtomy and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Specimens were examined via direct microscopy.
Results. Fifty canine spleens were analyzed. Fifteen specimens exhibited lymphoma structures, including: 4 small lymphocyte lymphomas; 9 B-cell large cell lymphomas; 1 lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma; 1 marginal zone lymphoma. Distinct morphological features of lymphomas were identified.
Conclusions. Histological evaluation incorporating histogenesis analysis, cellular composition and tumor growth patterns enables accurate diagnosis of lymphoproliferative disorders in animals. This approach is critical for disease prognosis and therapeutic decision-making in veterinary oncology.

To cite: Mitrokhina N.V., Sotnikova L.F. Pathomorphological and Differential Diagnostic Features of Spleen Lymphoma in Dogs. Agrarian Bulletin of the North Caucasus. 2025;15(2):25-41. https://doi.org/10.31279/2949-4796-2025-15-2-25-41