SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA IN FELINES: ETIOLOGICAL, CLINICAL, DIAGNOSTIC, AND THERAPEUTIC ASPECTS

Abstract

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a malignant neoplasm of epithelial origin of great importance in felines, occurring mainly in cutaneous and oral forms. This narrative review aimed to gather and discuss information on the epidemiological, etiopathogenic, clinical, diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic aspects of SCC in felines. A bibliographic search was conducted in the PubMed, SciELO, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, considering studies published between 2005 and 2025, in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. Initially, 52 studies were identified, of which 34 were considered for analysis and 28 were used in the final composition of the review. The literature demonstrates that chronic exposure to ultraviolet radiation constitutes an important factor associated with the development of cutaneous SCC, especially in animals with light-colored coats and hypopigmented areas. The oral form presents more aggressive behavior, with a high capacity for local invasion and bone involvement. Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation and the integration of cytological, histopathological, and imaging examinations. Treatment depends on the location and extent of the lesion and may involve surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, electrochemotherapy, and cryosurgery. Early diagnosis is essential to favor disease control and preserve the quality of life of affected animals.