Equine basal cell tumors

Basal cell tumors from 11 horses were examined histologically. Distinct patterns identified in the order of frequency are adenoid (six), solid (three), and medusoid (two). A minor component of most of these neoplasms was a ribbon pattern and cystic spaces. Hyalinized connective tissue and clear cells reminiscent of hair follicle glassy membranes and outer root sheath were present in a solid and the medusoid tumors. Heavy melanin pigmentation was present in one solid basal cell tumor. In eight cases for which information was available, the tumors had not recurred 3 to 8 years after excision.