A Role for Angiogenesis in Canine Cutaneous Histiocytoma Regression: Insights into an Old Clinical Enigma

Abstract

Background/aim: Canine Cutaneous Histiocytoma (CCH) is a Langerhans' cells benign tumour that undergoes spontaneous regression. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of angiogenesis, a key step for tumour development, in CCH regression.

Materials and methods: 50 CCH samples were classified into 4 histological groups according to a regression scale, and evaluated for expression of vascular endothelial factor-A (VEGF-A) and its receptor VEGFR-2 as well as microvessel density (MVD).

Results: Tumours during early stages of the regressive process had a lower MVD compared to later stages, while CCH tumoural cells showed a limited production of VEGF, but higher levels of VEGFR-2. On the contrary, tumours in advanced phases of regression showed a higher number of neovessels, probably associated with the inflammatory state and the healing process.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that angiogenesis may be compromised at early stages of histiocytoma development and this may be a determinant of regression in this tumour.

Keywords: CD31; Canine cutaneous histiocytoma; VEGF; angiogenesis.