Canine Intestinal Lymphangiectasia Concomitant with Renal Cell Carcinoma

The etiology of dilation of lymphatic vessels, termed as intestinal lymphangiectasia, remains unknown. In most cases, it occurs secondary to other pathologic conditions such as gastrointestinal neoplasms. However, only a few cases of canine intestinal lymphangiectasia concurrent with non-gastrointestinal neoplasms have been reported so far. Moreover, the correlation between intestinal lymphangiectasia and non-gastrointestinal neoplasms has not been discussed in any other literature. In this study, we report a rare case of intestinal lymphangiectasia concomitant with renal cell carcinoma in an 11 year old female mixed Maltese, suggesting that non-gastrointestinal neoplasms could be associated with the development of intestinal lymphangiectasia. On gross observation, the small intestine was irregularly swollen presenting an accordion like shape. Microscopic examination revealed prominent dilatation of the lymphatic vessels, especially, within the submucosa and muscularis layer. The lacteals within the villi were dilated and presented “club-shaped” tips. The carcinoma might trigger intestinal lymphangiectasia by compressing the main lymphatic vessels or the cisterna chyli, subsequently increasing the pressure of the lymphatic vessels in the gastrointestinal tract. Moreover, metastasis of the carcinoma to the gastrointestinal tract could induce intestinal lymphangiectasia. Thus, the occurrence of intestinal lymphangiectasia must be considered when an abdominal neoplasm is located around major lymphatic vessels.