Vol. 10, Issue 12, Part E (2025)

Author(s): Likhitha BP, KR Anjan Kumar, Jayaramu GM, L Suresha, Leena G and Roopa Devi YS

Abstract: Canine mast cell tumors are common cutaneous neoplasms with variable behavior. This study evaluated c-KIT marker expression in 30 cases to determine its diagnostic and prognostic significance through real time PCR and Immunohistochemistry. Immunohistochemistry identified three patterns: membranous (Pattern I), focal cytoplasmic (Pattern II), and diffuse cytoplasmic (Pattern III). Aberrant cytoplasmic localization (pattern II and III) was strongly associated with poor differentiation. Molecular analysis showed significant up regulation of c-KIT mRNA in grade III and high-grade tumors (Kruskal-Wallis, p?0.05; Mann-Whitney, p?0.01). Significant differences in mean c-KIT expression were also observed between recurrence and alive groups and between dead and alive groups. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated markedly shorter survival (51.5 days) and earlier recurrence (110.1 days) in dogs with c-KIT overexpression, whereas survival was for the under expression group. Overall, these findings underscore the diagnostic and prognostic relevance of c-KIT and support its use as a valuable marker in canine mast cell tumors.

DOI: 10.22271/veterinary.2025.v10.i12e.2832