Squamous cell carcinoma

Veterinary advice should be sought before applying any treatment or vaccine.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer in horses, and one of the most frequent forms of cancer affecting the eye. SCC tumors appear as solitary, raised, irregular masses, often ulcerated or infected, that develop around the eyelids (and third eyelids), genitals, face and ears, anal region, and other areas with minimal hair coverage and pigmentation. SCC tumors are slow-growing and are found most often in horses with white faces or markings that extend around the eyes.

Despite a large amount of research conducted on treatment for SCC, it is still a challenging condition to treat. The location of the tumor largely influences the type of treatment used. There are a wide range of currently available treatment options, however some are not universally accepted or supported by evidence based on clinical practice.

Latest Research
The University of California-Davis is currently conducting a clinical trial on SCC of the eye, specifically where the clear cornea meets the white of the eye, or the "limbus". This condition is referred to as limbal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC), and is a specific form of eye cancer that affects Haflinger horse breeds, moreso than other breeds. The aim of the study is to determine the incidence of LSCC in the Haflinger horse breed, to determine the mode of inheritance if a single gene is involved, and identify candidate genes for further investigation. Haflinger horses with confirmed LSCC (must be confirmed by pathology), or horses at least 13 years of age that have never been diagnosed with LSCC are eligible to participate in the study. Click here for additional information about the research and clinical trial.

Symptoms

Raised, irregular masses found around the eyes, lips, nose, anus, or genitals

Diagnosis

  • History
  • Clinical signs
  • Physical exam
  • Biopsy

Support

Therapies

TherapiesDetails
Surgerical excision
Cryotherapy
Lasor therapy
Photodynamic therapy
Radiation therapy
Brachytherapy
Chemotherapy

Prevention

Prognosis

Poor without complete removal.

Scientific Research

Clinical Trials

  • Squamous cell carcinoma near e icon
  • squamous cell carcinoma icon
  •  icon
  •  icon

Age Range

SCC is found most commonly in older, light colored horses on unpigmented areas of the body.

Risk Factors

  • Horses with white faces or markings that extend around the eyes.

Commonly Affected Breeds

Appaloosa iconClydesdale iconPaint Horse icon