engleski

BRAIN AND RENAL B LYMPHOMA IN BROWN BEAR – CASE REPORT

Adult (7 years of age) female brown bear from the bear sanctuary in Kuterevo (Croatia) showed depression to obtundation, disorientation, generalized ataxia, difficulties in food intake, dropping jaw and dry nostrils, that suggested facial sensitivity and motoric deficits in July 2013. Neurological localization was CNS with bilateral trigeminal involvement. The symptoms progressed up to anorexia. The liquid food was provided but possible to swallow only by immersing the whole muzzle under the surface. On 22th of November 2013 we immobilized and examined the bear. No morphological changes were found on the upper alimentary tract, except suspectedatrophy of masticatory muscles. Diagnostic tests included hematology and serum biochemistry. The serum was also tested for common autoimmune disorders that might affect the muscles and connective tissue. The tests showed the untypical reaction of serum antibodies with the canine esophageal epithelium cells, but as the tests were not validated for the bear, we could not fully confirm the diagnosis. The prolonged-effect steroid therapy (methylprednisolone) was applied twice to inhibit inflammatory and possible autoimmune condition, and supportive care was introduced. Temporary clinical improvement was recorded. However, unrelated to expected winter dormancy behavior, the general weakness, anorexia and significant loss of body movements’ coordination as well as atrophy of masticatory muscles progressed so the bear was euthanized on 15th of January 2014.Necropsy revealed whitish nodular neoplasm affecting both kidneys and brain stem. Histological and immunohistochemical examination confirmed diffuse growth of anaplastic B lymphocytes in affected tissues and through both Nervus trigeminus. Growth of B lymphoma within neural tissue and uremic encephalopathy were causes of severe motoric neurological signs. This is the first report on such tumor in bears. The state was evidently irreversible and not curable.

Brown bear; Ursus arctos; B lymphoma

nije evidentirano