Detección ecográfica de tumor de mediastino en gatos con leucemia felina en la clínica docentes especialidades veterinarias UTMACH

Abstract

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a disease caused by a retrovirus with high oncogenic potential, predisposing affected felines to the development of neoplasms, immunosuppression, and secondary diseases. Among the most relevant oncological manifestations associated with FeLV are mediastinal lymphomas, whose incidence may be influenced by factors such as age, breed, and FeLV positivity. Additionally, the presence of pleural effusion associated with these masses can exacerbate respiratory symptoms. The objective of this study was to detect the presence of mediastinal tumors in FeLV-positive cats treated at the UTMACH Teaching Specialty Clinic during the year 2025. For this purpose, felines with a confirmed FeLV diagnosis were identified, and thoracic ultrasound evaluations were performed to detect masses. Follow-up ultrasound monitoring was conducted on days 1 and 60 after the initial consultation. The results did not show a statistically significant association between the presence of mediastinal masses and variables such as breed, sex, or age. However, most cases corresponded to kittens and young adult cats, with no significant difference between males and females. A mediastinal mass was detected in one patient during the first ultrasound, initially presenting as an echogenic alteration. After 60 days, this lesion showed hypoechoic echogenicity and fluid presence, suggesting a progression of the pathological process. These findings highlight the importance of ultrasound monitoring in FeLV-positive patients for the early detection of mediastinal neoplasms. However, complementary studies, such as ultrasound-guided biopsies, are required to accurately characterize the nature of the detected lesions and establish a definitive diagnosis.