Development of hypoparathyroidism after excision of laryngeal rhabdomyosarcoma in a dog
Henderson, R.A.; Powers, R.D.; Perry, L.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 198(4): 639-643
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-1488 PMID: 2019532 Document Number: 386448
An uncommon neoplasm of the larynx, rhabdomyosarcoma, was diagnosed in a 6-year-old 14-kg neutered female Spitz. In addition to the progressive onset of expected clinical signs of the tumor (exercise intolerance, respiratory stridor, inability to bark), the dog experienced hyperthermic crisis. Laryngectomy was successful in eradicating the local neoplastic tissue; however, unusual postoperative complications developed and included acute complications of pharyngotracheal fistula and hypoparathyroidism, and long-term complications of periodic collapse of the tracheal stoma and intolerance to heat. Probable causes and successful management of these complications are described. At 22 months after laryngectomy, the dog was admitted for a solitary hepatic metastasis. While hospitalized, the dog died of apparent asphyxiation attributable to stoma collapse.