Orthotopic VX rabbit tongue cancer model with FDG-PET and histologic characterization

Background We present our experience with the use of an immunocompetent medium-sized animal model of tongue cancer that may be suitable for imaging and surgical studies. Methods A New Zealand white rabbit model of tongue cancer was created by injecting a VX tumor cell suspension grown in culture into the tongue of our model. The tumor was examined 7 days following implantation by physical examination, photography, and ¹⁸fluoro 2-deoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET). At 12 days postimplantation, the model was again studied as described above prior to euthanization, and then tongue excision and bilateral neck dissections were performed. All tissue was examined by histology. Results We confirmed a successful orthotopic tongue cancer model that resulted in cervical nodal metastases. Conclusion This model may be a useful model of orthotopic head and neck cancer for future surgical or imaging research.