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30 September 2021 Uveal Malignant Melanoma in a Hybrid Macaw Parrot (Ara chloropterus × Ara militaris)
Joshua E. Darden, Sharman M. Hoppes, Alexander M. Aceino, Brian F. Porter, Erin M. Scott
Author Affiliations +
Abstract

An adult male green-winged (Ara chloropterus) × military (Ara militaris) hybrid macaw of unknown age was presented to the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital for evaluation of left periocular swelling, blepharospasm, and ocular discharge. Complete ophthalmic examination and B mode ocular ultrasonography were performed to evaluate the affected eye. Ocular examination revealed a blind left globe with exophthalmos, periocular swelling, diffuse corneal edema, and severe anterior fibrinous uveitis obscuring visualization of the intraocular structures. An ultrasound examination revealed a hyperechoic mass that filled the posterior segment of the globe. Focal discontinuity of the posterior sclera suggested scleral rupture. Enucleation with histopathology was recommended and performed 1.5 months later. Intraoperatively, a heavily pigmented and friable soft tissue mass extruded through the posterior sclera and extended into the orbit. Histologically, the mass was consistent with a malignant melanoma. The patient died 18 hours after the surgical procedure because of unknown complications. Postmortem examination did not identify evidence of metastasis. This study described the clinical appearance and histopathologic findings of a rare ocular neoplasm with extrascleral extension in a hybrid macaw. Although uncommon in psittacine birds, primary ocular melanocytic neoplasms may display features of malignancy with scleral or orbital invasion, or both.

© 2021 by the Association of Avian Veterinarians
Joshua E. Darden, Sharman M. Hoppes, Alexander M. Aceino, Brian F. Porter, and Erin M. Scott "Uveal Malignant Melanoma in a Hybrid Macaw Parrot (Ara chloropterus × Ara militaris)," Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery 35(3), 367-373, (30 September 2021). https://doi.org/10.1647/20-00100
Published: 30 September 2021
KEYWORDS
Ara chloropterus
Ara militaris
Avian
calico macaw
green-winged macaw
hybrid macaw
military macaw
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