Diagnosis and management of a malignant granulosa cell tumor in a holstein nulligravida: a case study

Abstract

Transrectal palpation of an 18-mo-old, anestrous Holstein nulligravida revealed an enlarged left ovary. Ultrasonographically, the mass resembled known equine granulosa cell tumor (GCT) images. Slowly, virilism developed. Fifty-five days after initial diagnosis, unilateral ovariectomy was performed The presurgical serum concentration of testosterone was equal to that of a mature bull. During the 3 mo period following surgery, estrus expression resumed, the serum testosterone concentration returned to baseline, and the heifer was diagnosed pregnant following AI. A low grade, malignant GCT was the final histopathologically diagnosis. Clinical diagnosis of GCT should involve ultrasonography and steroid hormone assay. An ultrasound image, similar to the one shown, may be characteristic of GCT in the bovine.