Scent Gland Tumors in Gerbils: Promising News

The abdominal (ventral) scent gland of the Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) is a modified sebaceous gland grossly visible as a hairless, rough, orange, oval pad located in the umbilical region. Scent gland neoplasms are common (particularly in older males) and are clinically relevant, as associated pain, soreness, and irritation can lead to self-trauma and subsequent hemorrhage and/or secondary bacterial infection. This study described morphologic characteristics and classification of scent gland tumors as well as an effective surgical procedure for their removal in male gerbils. The altered scent glands (n = 16) typically presented as either cystic nodules or firm masses (0.7–1.2 cm in diameter). Histopathologic examination was performed on 11 of the excised scent glands and transmission electron microscopy on 3 glands. The spectrum of morphologic diagnosis included glandular hyperplasia (n = 1), benign neoplastic processes (n = 6), and carcinomas (n = 4). Except for 1 gerbil diagnosed with a poorly differentiated carcinoma, none of the gerbils available for follow-up showed evidence of tumor regrowth or metastasis during the study period (~2 years). This suggested that a relatively small proportion of scent gland tumors are aggressive and surgical treatment at an early stage could be curative in most cases.

CommentaryBecause reports of the surgical approach, classification, and biological behavior of scent gland neoplasia in pet gerbils are lacking, this paper presents a welcome overview of a common neoplastic condition seen in pet gerbils. Complete histopathologic descriptions are provided for most of the resected glands, including the first description reported for scent gland epithelioma. Possible causes, surgical follow-up, and useful clinical information are also provided.—Anthony Pilny, DVM, DABVP

SourceSurgical excision and morphological evaluation of altered abdominal scent glands in Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus). Deutschland M, Denk D, Skerritt G,Hetzel U. VET REC 169:636, 2011.