Sialocoele in a dog

By Emma Scurrell

Several aspirates were taken from a unilateral submandibular swelling in a 4-year-old, male entire Labrador.

Fig 1. Large clumps of pale blue-grey mucoid material are present, consistent with saliva. This is interspersed with moderate numbers of foamy macrophages.

Fig 2. Chronic haemorrhage is a common finding, characterised in this figure by haematoidin (golden yellow pigment) and haemosiderin (green-blue pigment).

Final Diagnosis

Sialocoele

Discussion

This is the typical cell picture associated with a salivary mucocoele (sialocoele).

I have used Cytopath for my laboratory work for many years and they have provided a superlative, professional service in that time. They are always helpful and will cheerfully give advice on samples required, sampling techniques, and suggested tests performed. They have always gone over and above what is usually expected for urgent samples and have never failed to help with my pathology questions. The ophthalmic pathology service is outstanding; certainly the best in the UK and among the top handful in the world. I would have no hesitation in recommending them as a pathology service.
Rachael Grundon BSc, VetMB, CertVR, CertVOphthal, MANZCVS(Surgery), FANZCVS(Ophthal), DipECVO MRCVS The Eye Vet Clinic, Leominster, Herefordshire