The so called squamous cell carcinoma. These are found on the third eyelid sometimes and although they are usually slow growing in their early stages these red ulcerated masses can become several centimeters in diameter. The early diagnosis and removal of the third eye-lid is usually curative. The patients are usually 7-12 years in age. If left untreated they will metastasize to the lymph nodes in the neck and can spread elsewhere in the body.
Early diagnosis is essential to good treatment success.
This applies to the horse in just the same way as it does to a dog or a human. Squamous cell carcinomas are also sometimes found on the gums and hard palate where they can become very invasive and destructive of the underlying soft tissue and bones. Rarely solar induced squamous cell carcinoma is found on the unpigmented areas of the muzzle. This usually starts as a crusty sore and will develop. Immediate treatment and the use of total sunblock is advised.