Ossifying fibroma in a miniature rex rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus).
Authors: Whitten K A, Popielarczyk M M, Belote D A, McLeod G C, Mense M G
Journal: Veterinary pathology
Summary
# Editorial Summary Ossifying fibroma represents a rare benign bone tumour most commonly documented in young horses, where it typically affects the mandible and causes malocclusion and facial deformity. This case describes the first documented occurrence of ossifying fibroma in a rabbit—specifically a 6-year-old miniature Rex presenting with a solitary maxillary mass causing tooth overgrowth and hard palate expansion. Histopathological examination revealed the characteristic features of this neoplasm: fibroblastic tissue interspersed with osteoblasts and islands of mineralised bone matrix, with minimal inflammatory response. Whilst the rarity of this condition in rabbits limits immediate clinical applicability, the case broadens our understanding of ossifying fibroma across species and highlights that practitioners should consider this diagnosis when encountering expansile oral lesions with dental displacement in rabbits, particularly given the potential for significant functional and cosmetic compromise. Definitive diagnosis remains dependent on histopathology, as the clinical presentation—localised gingival swelling with associated malocclusion—can mimic more common rabbit dental pathologies.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Ossifying fibroma should be considered in the differential diagnosis for mandibular or maxillary masses in rabbits presenting with malocclusion or dental overgrowth
- •Surgical biopsy with histopathologic examination is necessary for definitive diagnosis of this rare neoplasm
- •While primarily reported in young horses, clinicians should recognize this condition can occur across species including rabbits
Key Findings
- •First documented case of ossifying fibroma in a miniature Rex rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
- •Tumor presented as solitary maxillary mass causing dental overgrowth and hard palate expansion in a 6-year-old rabbit
- •Histopathology confirmed benign neoplasm composed of fibroblastic and osteoblastic cells with mineralized bony matrix and minimal inflammation