Oncology of Reptilian Neoplasia

Reptilian neoplasia encompasses the study of tumours arising in scales, epidermal appendages and internal organs of non-avian reptiles. Although historically under-represented in veterinary oncology, recent decades have witnessed an expansion of clinical and experimental investigations into the prevalence, pathogenesis and management of malignancies in lizards, snakes and chelonians. Common tumour types include chromatophoromas derived from pigment cells, epithelial carcinomas affecting skin and mucosa, and mesenchymal sarcomas within soft tissues and bone. Diagnostic approaches rely on imaging modalities such as ultrasonography and computed tomography, supported by histopathology and immunohistochemistry to differentiate among poorly-differentiated neoplasms. Treatment strategies range from surgical excision to adjunctive therapies; however, the optimal protocols are often extrapolated from mammalian oncology due to a paucity of reptile-specific data. Prognostic factors such as tumour type, grade and presence of metastasis vary by species and anatomical site, underscoring the need for bespoke management and further research into molecular drivers and environmental risk factors. This field holds global significance for conservation medicine, exotic pet welfare and comparative oncology, offering insights into tumour biology across vertebrate taxa.

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Oncology of Reptilian Neoplasia publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in oncology of reptilian neoplasia across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Neoplasia: The abnormal proliferation of cells forming a mass or tumour, which may be benign or malignant.

Metastasis: The process by which neoplastic cells spread from the primary tumour site to distant organs or tissues.

Histopathology: The microscopic examination of tissue samples to study the manifestations and progression of disease.

Immunohistochemistry: A laboratory technique that uses antibodies to detect specific antigens in tissues, aiding tumour classification.

Sarcoma: A malignant neoplasm arising from mesenchymal or connective tissues.

Carcinoma: A malignant tumour originating from epithelial cells covering internal and external body surfaces.

References

1. Chromatophoromas in Reptiles. Veterinary Sciences (2022).
2. A Multi-Institutional Collaboration to Understand Neoplasia, Treatment and Survival of Snakes. Animals (2022).
3. Evaluation of Neoplasia, Treatments, and Survival in Lizard Species. Animals (2024).