Adenoma and Adenocarcinoma, Clitoral Gland, Rat

Abstract

Many clitoral gland adenomas and adenocarcinomas are not large enough to recognize by gross necropsy examination. Larger neoplasms consist of unilateral or bilateral masses in the specific location of the preputial glands (see Biologic Features for anatomic relationships). Many of the larger neoplasms are ulcerated and contaminated with foreign material such as bedding. Location of the neoplasms on the ventral surface of the body makes them prone to injury from contact with wire cage floors, therefore ulceration and necrosis of the surface of the neoplasm do not necessarily indicate rapid growth which exceeded the vascular supply. The borders of clitoral adenomas and many adenocarcinomas are distinct, and a few neoplasms are encapsulated. Invasion of surrounding tissues is considered to be evidence of malignant potential, and usually results in classification of the neoplasm as an adenocarcinoma. The cut surface is firm, tan, and uniform in most cases, though adenocarcinomas and large adenomas may have necrotic cavities.