Equine Veterinarian Perspectives on Mucocutaneous Tumors in Horses: A Survey-Based Study in Portugal

This study explores equine veterinarians' clinical practices regarding mucocutaneous tumors, based on a survey conducted among members of the Portuguese Association of Equine Veterinarians, and examines their perceptions of owner and buyer concerns regarding these tumors. Veterinarians expressed significantly greater concern about squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) during routine examinations (p < 0.001) compared to sarcoids and melanomas. Concern over sarcoids was significantly greater during pre-purchase evaluations compared to routine clinical exams (p = 0.03). For melanomas, a trend toward increased concern in pre-purchase evaluations compared to routine examinations was observed (p = 0.07). There was a statistically significant association between the use of histopathology and the type of tumor (p < 0.001). Histopathology was performed less frequently in cases of melanoma compared to other tumor types. The cost was the main reason for not performing histopathology. During pre-purchase exams, buyers appeared to show greater concern regarding the presence of sarcoids (p = 0.001) and melanomas (p = 0.002) than regular owners. This study highlights the need to bolster training and education in equine oncology for veterinarians and owners to promote better diagnostic and therapeutic practices.