Pathological Characterization and Risk Factors of Splenic Nodular Lesions in Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris)

Gloria Corvera et al

Splenic nodules in dogs can arise from both neoplastic and non-neoplastic causes. These lesions often present diagnostic challenges due to similarities in their gross and imaging appearances. The study aimed to characterize splenic masses and identify risk factors for splenic neoplasia, improving diagnostic and management strategies for these lesions in dogs.

Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted on 507 histopathological reports of splenic nodules in dogs from a pathology laboratory in Chile, covering the period from 2014 to 2021. Data included breed, sex, age, number, and size of nodules. Histological diagnoses were classified as neoplastic or non-neoplastic. Logistic regression was used to assess risk factors for splenic neoplasia, focusing on variables like age, sex, nodule size, and number.

Results
Histopathology: 67.5% of lesions were non-neoplastic, with hyperplasia being the most common diagnosis (41.2%). Hemangiosarcoma (19.5%) was the most frequent neoplastic diagnosis.
Patient Characteristics:
Senior dogs (≥8 years) accounted for 83% of cases.
Purebred dogs (67.5%) were more affected, with Cocker Spaniels, German Shepherds, and Labrador Retrievers being the most common breeds.
Males had a higher prevalence of neoplastic lesions.
Macroscopic Findings:
Single nodules were more common (56.6%) than multiple nodules (22.7%).
Neoplastic nodules were significantly larger than non-neoplastic ones (median size: 5 cm vs. 3.5 cm; p = 0.0016).
Risk Factors for Neoplasia:
Male dogs had 16 times higher odds (OR = 16.2, p = 0.014).
Multiple nodules increased risk by nearly four times (OR = 3.94, p < 0.001).
Nodule size >2 cm significantly increased risk, with ORs ranging from 2.26 to 3.64 across size categories.
Age was a positive risk factor, while older males showed a decreasing risk with age.

Limitations
Missing data reduced the sample size for logistic regression.
Lack of reproductive status data prevented analysis of its potential influence.
Bias in sample submission may have skewed results towards single nodules.

Conclusions
The study identified hemangiosarcoma and hyperplasia as the most frequent neoplastic and non-neoplastic splenic lesions, respectively. Male sex, multiple nodules, larger nodules, and older age were significant risk factors for splenic neoplasia. These findings provide insights for better diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for splenic lesions in dogs.

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