BOTRYOID RHABDOMYOSARCOMA IN A DOG – CASE REPORT

Abstract

Botryoid rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare and highly aggressive form of neoplasia that primarily affects the skeletal muscles of dogs, being more common in young individuals. This article reports a case of botryoid rhabdomyosarcoma in a 1-year and 3-month-old male American Pitbull Terrier. The diagnosis was established through complementary examinations, including ultrasonography, computed tomography, and biopsy, which confirmed the presence of the tumor in the trigone region of the urinary bladder. Treatment consisted of cystotomy for sample collection followed by electrochemotherapy applied to the nodules, aiming to reduce tumor size. However, due to the anatomical location and the impossibility of complete resection, there was no significant clinical improvement. Considering the persistence of severe clinical signs and the guarded prognosis, euthanasia was indicated as the most appropriate course of action. This case highlights the rarity of botryoid rhabdomyosarcoma in dogs, the challenges in managing tumors located in critical anatomical regions, and the importance of early diagnosis for prognostic assessment and treatment planning.