Basal cell tumour

From Felipedia

Multicentric 'mastocytic' mast cell tumour on the face of a DSH cat^[1]

'Mastocytic' mast cell tumour on a distal limb of a DSH cat. Note the firm, fairly well-delineated nodule

Histopathological appearance of a basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell tumours are a relatively common skin disease in cats, making up to 15-25% of feline skin tumours. Basal cell tumours occur primarily in older cats (5-18 years) and may be benign (benign basal cell tumour, basal cell epithelioma, basaloid tumour, basaloma) or malignant (basal cell carcinoma), although most (>90%) behave in a benign manner ^[2]. Their development dopes not seem to be dependent on sunlight.

Tumours arise from epidermal basal cells and usually affect the head, neck, and thorax (and occasionally the nasal planum and eyelids). The lesions are usually well circumscribed, solitary, raised ulcerated, hairless and occasionally melanotic and/or cystic. Tumours are typically fixed to the overlying skin and freely movable. They are also often slow growing and may present months prior to a diagnosis. All cat breeds are affected, although Siamese (carcinoma), Himalayan and Persian (benign basal cell tumour) breeds may be predisposed.

There is no known cause, although there is a strong correlation in humans between UV light exposure and tumour formation.

Treatment usually consists of radical excision +/- radiation therapy. In most cases the prognosis is excellent with complete surgical excision.

References

1. ↑ Guaguere, E & Prelaud, P (2000) A practical guide to feline dermatology. Merial, France
2. ↑ Norsworthy, G, et al. (2003) The Feline Patient: Essentials of diagnosis and treatment: 2nd edition. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.