Retrospective study of Spontaneous Tumors in 32 Pet African Pygmy Hedgehogs, with a Focus on 3 Histiocytic Neoplasms

The number of hedgehogs kept as pets has been increasing worldwide.Tumor occurrence can vary depending on age, living environment, era, and diet.Particularly, pet hedgehogs have distinctly different living conditions and dietary patterns compared to hedgehogs in zoos or wildlife.Previous retrospective studies and reviews on hedgehog tumors have not systematically differentiated their environmental origins.This study examines 34 tumors in 32 privately owned African Pygmy hedgehogs, providing a comprehensive analysis of tumor incidence based on sex, age, malignancy, organ, and location.The research offers valuable insights for veterinary practitioners.Notably, the study focuses on three specific histiocytic neoplasms: histiocytoma, malignant histiocytoma, and malignant fibrous histiocytoma.By presenting an updated report on tumor incidence in privately owned hedgehogs, this research aims to guide diagnosis and treatment strategies for pathologists and small exotic animal veterinary practitioners.