Page 1105 - Problem-Based Feline Medicine

52 – THE CAT WITH NON-HEALING WOUNDS 1097

Multifocal lesions occur over the head, neck, shoul- Tumors usually occur as solitary lesions on the head
ders and forelimbs on pigmented, thickly haired or neck.
skin.
Size and shape are variable ranging from a dome, to a
Begin as hyperkeratotic macules and evolve to thick- plaque or polypoid shape, and ulceration is frequent.
crusted, ulcerated plaques.
The neoplasia often have a long course over a couple Diagnosis
of years, with waxing and waning signs.
Diagnosis is based on histopathological examination of
an excisional biopsy. Characteristic findings are atypi-
Diagnosis
cal melanocytes in nests, sheets and cords. Cells may
Diagnosis is based on histopathological findings. exhibit epithelioid or spindle morphology or a combin-
ation of both.
Excise the lesion and submit for histopathology.
Histologically, there is abrupt transition from normal to
atypical epithelium. The dermo–epidermal junction
BASAL CELL CARCINOMA (BCC)
is not breached.
Classical signs
Differential diagnosis
● Pigmented, cystic tumor on head or neck of
Differential diagnoses which should be considered
older cats.
include mycobacterial, fungal and bacterial granulomas
and other neoplasia.
See main references on page 1070 for details (The Cat
With Skin Lumps and Bumps).
Treatment
Treatment of choice for thin lesions is beta radiation.
Clinical signs
Treatment does not prevent new lesions.
Basal cell carcinoma occurs frequently as a pigmented
Etretinate and isoretinoin can be used in thicker
and/or cystic tumor of the head, neck, thorax, nasal
lesions, but the response is variable.
planum or eyelids in older cats.
Prognosis Usually occur as a solitary tumor and are frequently
ulcerated.
Cats are often euthanized for cosmetic reasons and
owner frustration at poor response to therapy.
Diagnosis
Metastases have not been reported.
Diagnosis is based on histopathology.
MELANOMA
CUTANEOUS LYMPHOMA
Classical signs
● Ulcerated, pigmented nodule on head or Classical signs
neck.
● Alopecia and scale.
● Erythroderma.
See main references on page 1079 for details (The Cat
● Hypopigmentation of hair or skin and
With Skin Lumps and Bumps).
mucocutaneous junctions.
● Nodules or plaques which often ulcerate.
Clinical signs
Melanoma typically occurs in older cats of any breed See main references on page 1078 for details (The Cat
(average age is 10 years). With Skin Lumps and Bumps).