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Metastatic ocular squamous cell carcinoma in a cat
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|December 15, 1984
Summary
Squamous cell carcinoma metastasized to a cat's eyes, brain, and lungs, causing severe ophthalmic and systemic signs. Despite treatment, the cat's condition worsened, leading to euthanasia and confirmed diagnosis via histology.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Ophthalmology
- Comparative Pathology
- Oncology
Background:
- Metastatic cancer in cats can affect multiple organ systems.
- Ocular involvement in feline metastatic disease is uncommon but significant.
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common skin cancer in cats, but rarely presents as a primary metastatic ocular tumor.
Observation:
- A cat presented with bilateral ocular signs including swollen optic discs, choroidal pallor, and retinal vascular engorgement.
- Ocular findings also included retinal detachment in the left eye and retinal edema/hemorrhage in the right eye.
- Systemic signs included progressive visual impairment, ataxia, and weakness.
Findings:
- Histologic examination confirmed bilateral ocular metastatic squamous cell carcinoma.
- Metastasis of malignant squamous cells was also identified in the brain and lungs.
- The cat's condition deteriorated despite systemic antibiotic and corticosteroid therapy.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for squamous cell carcinoma to metastasize to ocular and central nervous system tissues in cats.
- Ocular examination is crucial for diagnosing systemic disease in cats presenting with neurological or visual deficits.
- Early detection and understanding of metastatic patterns are vital for feline oncology and treatment strategies.