A case of corneal squamous cell carcinoma in a dog

Abstract

"Greta", an eight year old female spayed Labrador retriever mix, presented to the Cornell University Hospital for Animals Ophthalmology Service in July of 2006 for evaluation of a previously diagnosed corneal squamous cell carcinoma in her right eye. At time of presentation, the tumor had been growing for approximately two years. Biopsy performed by the referring veterinarian was consistent with a corneal squamous cell carcinoma. The Ophthalmology Service excised the corneal squamous cell carcinoma and treated the tumor site with strontium-90 beta irradiation. Histopathology of the excised mass confirmed the diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma. Subsequent to tumor removal, Greta developed severe corneal neovascularization and corneal melanosis, which were treated with topical steroids and topical cyclosporine, respectively. At approximately 3 months post operation and radiation, both the neovascularization and melanosis are resolving. Greta is doing well with no signs of local recurrence or metastasis and improved vision.