Neoplastic Diseases

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UTERINE ADENOCARCINOMA Perhaps the most common neoplasm of rabbits. The patient presents with a history of reproductive problems including dystocia, ectopic pregnancy, stillbirths, and early abortions. Sometimes the only problem may be persistent small litters. Treatment is to perform an OVH, but usually by the time of clinical detection this highly malignant tumor has already metastasized (with a predilection for lung and colonic tissue). Obviously, prevention by sterilization is preferred, and it also helps to alleviate the current problem of overpopulation of the domestic rabbit.
  LYMPHOSARCOMA This neoplasm is usually only seen in young rabbits. There is believed to be a genetic predisposition described as homozygosity for an autosomal recessive non sex-linked gene. This tumor is usually found on the liver, kidneys, and spleen. Generalized lymphadenopathy is also observed. Prognosis is poor and treatment is usually flitile.
  SQUAMOS CELL CARCINOMA The rabbit is usually infected with the Shope papilloma virus. A simple papilloma forms, and if not removed by about six months afier it has surfaced, will develop into a squamos cell carcinoma which can metastasize to any organ via the hematogenous route. Prognosis is better for early detection and removal.