Laser treatment for skin cancer in cats - what to know

Abstract

Case series summaryFive domestic cats diagnosed with Bowenoid in situ carcinoma (BISC) via histopathology were included in this retrospective case series. All cats presented with several dermatologic lesions including but not limited to hyperkeratotic plaques or crusts, focal alopecia, pigmented papules, erosions and secondary pyoderma. The disease was gradually progressive in all cases, with a median time from lesion development to treatment of 365 days (range 84-1614). Of five cats, four had no other clinical signs at the time of presentation; one was pruritic. Each cat was treated with at least one session of carbon dioxide (CO) laser ablation of the lesions under heavy sedation and local anesthesia or general anesthesia. No adverse events related to treatment were noted. Three cats had documented progressive disease (formation of recurrent or new lesions) at a median of 379 days (range 45-854) after first treatment (laser and/or surgery). Median time to progressive disease after first laser ablation was 269 days (range 158-379; n = 4 cats with follow-up available). Two cats were treated with COlaser ablation more than once. One was in complete remission 130 days after surgery and two laser ablation sessions. No cats developed metastatic disease.Relevance and novel informationFeline BISC is a unique form of virally induced squamous cell carcinoma causing multifocal, superficial cutaneous lesions all over the body. This disease is often progressive, with cats developing regrowth of prior lesions or de novo ones, although deeper invasion and metastasis is rare. Historically, surgical excision and/or immunomodulation with imiquimod cream have been the mainstay of treatment. COlaser ablation is a new, well-tolerated, minimally invasive and effective alternative or adjunct treatment that can be repeated as new lesions arise.