CT helps diagnose metastatic uterine cancer in Pot-bellied sow

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A case report in the Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation describes an antemortem diagnosis of metastatic endometrial adenocarcinoma in a 13-year-old Vietnamese Pot-bellied sow, using computed tomography to identify diffuse cystic and mineralized uterine masses, multiple pulmonary nodules, and abdominal lymphadenopathy before necropsy confirmation. The sow was presented for blood-tinged mucoid vulvar discharge, with a longer history of intermittent coughing and weight loss. The report adds to a small but important body of literature showing that reproductive tract neoplasia, including endometrial adenocarcinoma with metastasis, does occur in aging pot-bellied pigs, and that advanced imaging can help clinicians recognize it before death. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals seeing companion pigs, this case is a reminder to keep uterine neoplasia on the differential list when older intact sows present with vulvar discharge, chronic respiratory signs, weight loss, or nonspecific decline. Prior reports and retrospective pathology data suggest neoplasms are not rare in pot-bellied pigs, and uterine masses are more common than ovarian tumors in older intact females. CT won't be available in every case, but this report highlights its value for staging suspected metastatic disease and for connecting reproductive and respiratory findings that might otherwise be worked up separately. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

What to watch: Watch for whether this case prompts more discussion around earlier reproductive screening and stronger consideration of elective ovariohysterectomy in pet pigs not intended for breeding. (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)