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Adrenal Teratoma in Four Domestic Ferrets (Mustela putorius furo)

Abstract

Teratomas are histologically complex neoplasms that are composed of structures derived from multiple germ cell layers (ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm). These neoplasms are uncommon in domestic animals and are usually found in the gonads. This paper describes teratomas of the adrenal gland in four domestic ferrets (Mustela putorius furo). Three of four of the neoplasms contained tissues from ectodermal, mesodermal, and endodermal germ cell layers; two of four contained rudimentary teeth. In one case, malignant epithelial cells had metastasized to local lymph nodes. Teratomas, although uncommon, should be included in the differential diagnosis for adrenal neoplasms in domestic ferrets.

Key words: Adrenal gland; ferrets; neoplasm; teratoma.

Request reprints from Dr. B. H. Williams, Department of Telemedicine, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Washington, DC 20306-6000 (USA). Email: williamsb{at}afip.osd.mil.