Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Squamous cell carcinoma as a cause of dyspnea and blindness in a horse.
- Journal:
- The Cornell veterinarian
- Year:
- 1991
- Authors:
- Gaughan, E M et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Clinical Sciences
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
An 8-year-old Quarter Horse mare was having trouble breathing due to a long-term issue with nasal discharge and blocked nasal passages. A solid mass was found in her sinuses and throat, and after surgery to reduce the size of the mass, it was determined to be squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. About 7 to 8 weeks later, she suddenly became blind, and a veterinary eye exam showed that the cancer had caused changes in her skull that were pressing on her optic nerves. Although the tumor had not invaded the bones, it had caused significant problems with her breathing and vision. The treatment provided some relief, but the mare's condition continued to worsen due to the tumor's progression.
Abstract
An 8-year-old Quarter Horse mare was examined for chronic nasal discharge and obstruction of both nasal passages. A solid mass lesion was identified in the maxillary sinuses, soft palate, nasal and pharyngeal cavities. Palliative surgery was used to debulk the lesion and facilitate nasal airflow. Squamous cell carcinoma was diagnosed from surgical biopsies. Approximately 7-8 weeks after surgery, the mare was observed to be acutely blind. Ophthalmologic examination revealed central origin blindness and active retinitis. The squamous cell carcinoma had reobstructed the nasal passages. Pressure by the expanding tumor deformed the ethmoid and sphenoid bones resulting in compression of the optic tracts. No bony invasion by the tumor was present.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1879142/