Cutaneous angiomatosis in a dog

By Emma Scurrell

The following are histopathology (H&E) sections of a solitary, ulcerated cutaneous mass surgically resected from the neck of a 1-year-old male Labrador Retriever.

Fig 1. Low power magnification of the excised skin mass. Infiltrating the dermis are numerous vascular structures which are either small and resemble capillaries (black circle) or consist of larger, disorganised arterial structures (black arrows).

Fig 2. Closer view of the proliferating capillary-like structures (V = vessel lumen).

Fig 3. Closer view of the proliferating arterial-like structures (V= vessel lumen) which are found within the deeper dermis.

Final Diagnosis

Cutaneous angiomatosis

Discussion

Angiomatosis is an umbrella term used to denote various vasoproliferative lesions including vascular malformations and hyperplasia. The majority of dogs affected are young although lesions can also occur in adult/older dogs. Despite the bland cellular appearance of these lesions, they can be locally infiltrative and progressive. Although any site can be affected, lesions most commonly occur on the feet and are often associated with bony destruction. Metastasis has not been reported however incomplete excision will result in local recurrence and additional lesions can occur.