What Every Pet Owner Needs to Know about Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Dogs

You may have heard of squamous cell cancer in humans, but what about when it comes to dogs? No pet owner wants to hear that their pet is sick. The stress of a sick pet can be devastating and can affect the family emotionally and financially. This is why early detection is key, as is the understanding that medical conditions like squamous cell carcinoma (SSC) in dogs can occur in any pup, regardless of their breed, size, or age.

We spoke with Trupanion veterinarian, Dr. Caroline Wilde to learn more about squamous cell carcinoma in dogs and what to watch for in your furry friends.

What is squamous cell carcinoma?

Also known as epidermoid carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the squamous cells. These cells make up a type of epithelial tissue lining smooth surfaces of the body, like the skin, lung, pericardium, and blood vessels. Because of this, squamous cell carcinoma has the potential to occur in a number of areas around the body.

According to Wilde, however, it most commonly appears as a form of skin cancer.

“Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that generally occurs on non-pigmented, thinly haired areas of skin," she says. "Though it can also occur in the mouth, eyelids, or tissues surrounding the eyes.”

How does squamous cell carcinoma in dogs happen?

Cancer can come in many shapes and forms. Because of this, it can be hard to know what to look for in your pets. Just like with humans, there might not always be a clear indication of the reason for the condition.

“It’s not known how dogs get SCC, though it may be associated with increased exposure to UV light,” states Wilde. "If you detect anything abnormal with your dog, you should seek medical care immediately."

Exposure to different environments may negatively affect your dog. You may want to consider clothing and pet care options like sunscreen to help keep your pet protected from the elements.

Common signs of squamous cell carcinoma in dogs

SCC of the skin generally appears as a discrete pinkish or reddish lesion, often with an irregular surface.

When it occurs in the mouth, ease of detection varies with location, as it can occur on the gums, under or on the tongue, or deeper in the oral cavity like on the tonsils.

Due to difficulty in visualizing lesions inside the mouth or oral cavity, the owner may first notice some signs that may not seem serious on their own. According to Wilde, these signs include:

• Drooling
• Bad breath
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Weight loss

While every dog is different, some pets might experience some of these signs or only a few. Regardless, if owners notice any of these to please check in with your veterinarian. The earlier a medical condition like this is detected, the sooner you can start a treatment plan.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma in dogs starts with a biopsy or fine needle aspirate. From there your veterinarian will determine the next steps based on the results. In addition, several diagnostics might be performed including radiographs, a sample of lymph nodes, CT scan, or an ultrasound.

Treatment options for squamous cell carcinoma in dogs

With the expertise and help of your veterinarian, there are a wide variety of treatment options for Cancer.

“The goal of treatment is always the elimination of all cancerous cells and may depend on location and evidence of spread," Wilde explains. "Also, treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, and sometimes chemotherapy. Naturally, the first step is surgical removal depending on the location if possible.