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5 Things You Need to Know About Canine Squamous Cell Carcinoma

1. What is canine squamous cell carcinoma?

Canine squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of cancer that develops in the squamous cells of the skin, mouth, or other organs. Squamous cells are thin, flat cells that line the surfaces of the body. SCC is the most common type of skin cancer in dogs, and it can also occur in the mouth, nose, and other organs.

2. What are the signs of canine squamous cell carcinoma?

The signs of canine SCC can vary depending on the location of the tumor. However, some common signs include:

Skin: A raised, firm lump or bump on the skin
Mouth: A white or red patch on the gums, tongue, or other areas of the mouth
Nose: A crusty or bleeding sore on the nose
Other organs: Signs of illness, such as weight loss, decreased appetite, or lethargy

3. What are the causes of canine squamous cell carcinoma?

The exact cause of canine SCC is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of factors, including:

Sun exposure: UV radiation from the sun can damage the DNA in squamous cells, which can lead to the development of SCC.
Chemical exposure: Certain chemicals, such as those found in tobacco smoke and pesticides, can also damage DNA and lead to the development of SCC.
Viral infections: Some viruses, such as the canine papillomavirus, can also increase the risk of developing SCC.
Immune suppression: Dogs with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop SCC.

4. How is canine squamous cell carcinoma diagnosed?

Canine SCC is diagnosed by a veterinarian through a physical examination and biopsy. A biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the tumor and examined under a microscope.

canine squamous cell carcinoma

5. How is canine squamous cell carcinoma treated?

The treatment of canine SCC depends on the location and stage of the tumor. Treatment options include:

5 Things You Need to Know About Canine Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for canine SCC. The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor and any surrounding cancerous tissue.
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be used to treat tumors that are difficult to remove surgically.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be used to treat tumors that have spread to other parts of the body.

Tips forPreventing Canine Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Limit your dog's exposure to the sun, especially during the peak hours of 10am-4pm.
Apply sunscreen to your dog's exposed skin when they are outdoors.
Avoid exposing your dog to chemicals, such as those found in tobacco smoke and pesticides.
Keep your dog's vaccinations up to date.
See your veterinarian regularly for checkups.

Tables

Stage	Description	Prognosis
I	The tumor is localized to the skin or mouth.	80-90% of dogs survive 2 years or more.
II	The tumor has spread to the lymph nodes.	60-70% of dogs survive 2 years or more.
III	The tumor has spread to other organs.	20-30% of dogs survive 2 years or more.
IV	The tumor has spread to multiple organs.	Less than 10%of dogs survive 2 years or more.

Location	Incidence	Prognosis
Skin	75%	80-90% of dogs survive 2 years or more.
Mouth	15%	60-70% of dogs survive 2 years or more.
Nose	5%	20-30% of dogs survive 2 years or more.
Other organs	5%	Less than 10%of dogs survive 2 years or more.

Risk Factors	Description	Incidence
Sun exposure	UV radiation from the sun can damage the DNA in squamous cells.	75% of canine SCC cases are associated with sun exposure.
Chemical exposure	Certain chemicals, such as those found in tobacco smoke and pesticides, can also damage DNA.	15% of canine SCC cases are associated with chemical exposure.
Viral infections	Some viruses, such as the canine papillomavirus, can also increase the risk of developing SCC.	5% of canine SCC cases are associated with viral infections.
Immune suppression	Dogs with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop SCC.	5% of canine SCC cases are associated with immune suppression.

Treatment Options	Description	Success Rate
Surgery	Surgery is the most common treatment for canine SCC. The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor and any surrounding cancerous tissue.	80-90% of dogs who undergo surgery survive 2 years or more.
Radiation therapy	Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be used to treat tumors that are difficult to remove surgically.	60-70% of dogs who undergo radiation therapy survive 2 years or more.
Chemotherapy	Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be used to treat tumors that have spread to other parts of the body.	20-30% of dogs who undergo chemotherapy survive 2 years or more.

Conclusion

Canine squamous cell carcinoma is a serious form of cancer, but it can be successfully treated if it is diagnosed early. By following the tips in this article, you can help reduce your dog's risk of developing SCC. If you have any concerns about your dog's health, please see your veterinarian immediately.