Humeral Aneurysmal Bone Cyst in a Cat with Sequential Computed Tomographic Findings

Simple Summary This case report describes a case of an aneurysmal bone cyst of the humerus in a cat with sequential computed tomography findings acquired 4 months after the first visit. An aneurysmal bone cyst is a tumor-like lesion with massive bone destruction. It is a benign, osteolytic, blood-containing bone lesion that grows rapidly. It is thus often misdiagnosed as a malignant tumor. The most practical treatment in advanced cases is amputation of the affected bone. A 7-year-old spayed female domestic shorthair cat presented with a swollen right forelimb and mild lameness. On physical examination, the mass was palpable in the right humeral region, and the cat exhibited pain on palpation. Radiography revealed an expansile osteolytic lesion at the proximal end of the right humerus. Computed tomography (CT) revealed an expansile bony mass on the proximal end of the right humerus and a mild periosteal reaction around the acromion of the scapula. Amputation of the right forelimb, including the scapula and removal of the axillary lymph node, were strongly recommended to the owner, but were declined. Four months after the initial presentation, the cat presented with a dramatically swollen right forelimb and progressive lameness. CT was performed again. In addition to osteolytic changes in the mass, vascular development had occurred at the cranioproximal region. The right forelimb, including the scapula and ipsilateral lymph nodes, was removed. The cat died during the postoperative recovery period. Based on clinical, diagnostic imaging, and histological findings, the final diagnosis was aneurysmal bone cyst. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of an aneurysmal bone cyst in the humerus of a cat.

Automated summary

This case report describes a cat with an aneurysmal bone cyst in the humerus. Sequential computed tomography findings over 4 months showed progressive bone destruction and vascular development. The cat declined amputation and eventually died during the postoperative recovery period.