Knowing the different skin pathologies that affect the dog is essential to identify important changes in your pet's he alth. We must remember that the attention of the owner is crucial, since it guarantees us the early attention of the veterinarian.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a malignant neoplasm of epithelial cells. This skin cancer is quite common in cats, in fact, it represents the most common skin neoplasm in cats (15%). In canines, it is estimated that it ranks 8th among cutaneous and subcutaneous neoplasms (around 4.6%). In this article on our site we will talk about the generalities of squamous cell carcinoma in dogs, its symptoms and treatments, to inform about a pathology as frequent as it is important, and that requires immediate veterinary attention.
What is squamous cell carcinoma in dogs?
As we mentioned earlier, squamous cell carcinoma is a neoplasm that affects the skin and is much more common in cats than cats. in dogs. It is associated, as in humans, with exposure to sunlight. It usually has a good prognosis, but as with any condition, this will depend on when it is diagnosed.
It is a type of malignant tumor that should be treated by a specialist as soon as possible, so in the presence of the first symptom, it is essential to visit the veterinary clinic.
Squamous cell carcinoma in dogs - Symptoms
All the changes that we can see at the level of our dog's skin can be characteristic signs of neoplasms. For this reason, whether or not we suspect this type of skin cancer in dogs, we must go to a specialist for a check-up.
Next, we will list the most frequent symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma in dogs:
- Ulcers
- Bleeding wounds
- Pustules
- Crusts
- Reddened areas
We must bear in mind that skin lesions are classified as primary and secondary, and if we notice any change after a considerable time, we are probably not seeing a primary lesion but a secondary one. We could be in the presence of an injury that was caused by another and that can make the diagnosis made by the veterinarian difficult. It has been possible to describe that the areas in which the lesions begin to appear are those less covered with hair and, therefore, more affected by the sun's rays.
Types of squamous cell carcinoma in dogs
Neoplasms are generally classified according to the cells affected, although there are also classifications that are associated with the stage. For squamous cell cancer in humans, the TNM system (size, nearby nodules, metastases) is described. It is not described in animals but it is a guide that the veterinarian can carry out to identify the process that is being faced and establish an adequate treatment. Generally, this neoplasm does not present with metastases, although some cases have been reported in dogs.
Another way to classify the types of squamous cell carcinoma in dogs could be by location We have already said that it generally affects the areas most exposed to sunlight (face and ears), but it can appear anywhere on the body. It should also be considered that certain organs, such as the bladder, also have squamous cells, so it is not just a skin condition.
Squamous cell carcinoma in dogs - Diagnosis
The definitive diagnosis will be made by the veterinarian, gathering the data that must be collected in the complementary exams. The hallmark test is the biopsy, however, since the dog comes to the office with a skin condition, the vet will likely perform blood tests, skin scrapings and pap smears
Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Dogs - Treatment
Treatment for this condition is not the same for all patients. Neoplasms are very delicate pathologies and treatment must be adjusted to each patient according to their characteristics. The physical condition of the pet and, in many cases, its age must be taken into consideration to best adjust the solution to its needs, without causing any iatrogenic problems.
The different treatments for squamous cell carcinoma in dogs are as follows:
- Immunomodulators: they are a very common and efficient option for this type of pathology, which usually yields to immune system modulators with a good prognosis.
- Chemotherapy: acts by directly destroying cancer cells, however, its use in this pathology will depend on many things due to side effects that produces.
- Radiotherapy: the use of X-rays is described in pathologies of this type, however, they are rarely used in dogs.
- Surgery: It depends on the stage and how big the lesion has grown, so the vet must decide whether to remove the tumor or can shrink it with treatment.
The prognosis for squamous cell carcinoma in dogs is usually positiveand does not require invasive treatment, although this does not rule out the few cases of metastasis, since, in the end, it is considered a malignant neoplasm.
