Abordagem terapêutica de fibroma ossificante em novilha Nelore: Relato de caso

Abstract

Background: Ossifying fibroma is a rare benign intraosseous neoplasm in animals, characterized by slow, expansive, and locally invasive growth, capable of causing significant bone deformities. Although its etiology remains uncertain, it has been associated with developmental disorders, interference with normal mandibular intramembranous ossification, or local trauma. In animals, it shows a predilection for the rostral portion of the mandible and is most frequently described in young horses, with few reports in cattle, dogs, cats, and small ruminants. Histologically, a fibro-osseous proliferation replacing normal bone is observed; radiographically, the lesion appears well demarcated, with variable degrees of mineralization. Definitive diagnosis depends on histopathological evaluation, as clinical and radiographic findings are nonspecific. Case: A 2.7-year-old Nelore heifer presented with a firm, painless swelling in the rostral portion of the mandible, associated with difficulty in food prehension and weight loss. The lesion extended over the alveolar region, resulting in tooth loss. Radiographic examination revealed bone lysis in the rostral portion of the mandible, more evident in the left hemimandible, with destruction of the alveolar region. Tumor excision associated with partial mandibulectomy and cryocauterization was performed. Histopathological examination confirmed a fibro-osseous proliferation consistent with ossifying fibroma. The postoperative period was uneventful, with progressive clinical and hematological improvement, and no recurrence was observed up to 45 days after the procedure. Discussion: The association of tumor excision, partial mandibulectomy, and cryocauterization proved to be an effective and promising therapeutic alternative for the treatment of ossifying fibroma in cattle. The aim of this report is to describe a case of ossifying fibroma in a Nelore heifer, emphasizing the therapeutic approach, whose satisfactory outcome highlights the practical relevance of this treatment for ruminant clinical practice.