TY - JOUR T1 - Submandibular Leiomyosarcoma Masquerading as an Abscess in a Ball Python (Python regius): A Diagnostic Challenge Resolved by Histopathology and Immunohistochemistry A1 - Mia Keller A1 - Luca Weber JF - International Journal of Veterinary Research and Allied Sciences JO - Int J Vet Res Allied Sci SN - 3062-357X Y1 - 2022 VL - 2 IS - 1 DO - 10.51847/zwAQ4D0aXk SP - 44 EP - 49 N2 - A two-year-old ball python presenting with a submandibular swelling was examined. Fine-needle aspiration yielded purulent debris containing bacterial organisms. Radiographs revealed multiple radiopaque regions within the mass, suggestive of mineralization, but no mandibular or pulmonary involvement. Grossly, the excised lesion was multi-nodular, well-defined, and contained purulent material. Postoperative recovery was smooth. Histopathology followed by immunohistochemical testing confirmed the lesion as a leiomyosarcoma because neoplasms containing pus-like material can mimic abscesses; therefore, comprehensive diagnostic evaluation using multiple modalities is advised. UR - https://esvpub.com/article/submandibular-leiomyosarcoma-masquerading-as-an-abscess-in-a-ball-python-python-regius-a-diagnost-zcwzz2wzuw3bmfe ER -