Increased regulatory T cells in thyroid adenocarcinoma in a mixed breed dog

This case report describes the increment of regulatory T cells in thyroid carcinoma of a mixed breed dog compared with normal dogs. A mixed breed dog was referred for a submandibular mass and hyperthermia. Right cervical mass was detected during the physical examination and radiography identified right cervical mass suspected thyroid gland. Accurate location and size of mass was confirmed using computed tomography and 3D reconstructed images. After confirmation of mass, surgical resection was performed and evaluation of regulatory T cells in blood of this patient was performed using flow cytometric assay. The percentage of regulatory T cells was 38.28% of all CD4 (+)/ CD25 (+) T cells. This result was higher than median percentage of regulatory T cells of healthy 8 beagles (7.66 ± 1.65% (p < 0.01) of all CD4 (+)/CD25 (+) T cells). And masses were confirmed as giant cell thyroid carcinoma based on histopathologic examination. After surgical resection of cervical mass was performed, the owner didn't want chemotherapy. Seven days later, cervical mass came out again. And CBC showed severe leukocytosis (WBC 47.6 × 10³/ μL) and non-regenerative anemia (PCV 21%). Suspected pulmonic metastasis regions became more severe. Finally the dog died of severe anemia and respiratory disorder.