Long‐term management of multifocal, facially oriented squamous cell carcinoma in an American Yorkshire pig with intralesional bleomycin electrochemotherapy, CO₂ laser surgery and cryosurgery

Abstract

A 4‐year‐old American Yorkshire barrow (Sus scrofa domesticus) presented for masses on the left ventral palpebra and convex pinnae bilaterally. Multiple incisional biopsies were consistent with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. The pig was hospitalised for three sessions of electrochemotherapy, with intralesional bleomycin chemotherapy conducted over 1 month. No significant complications from the chemotherapy occurred. Long‐term follow‐up for newly developing lesions on the pinnae and periocular skin included treatment with CO2 laser and cryosurgery with success. Although squamous cell carcinoma is a common finding in food animals, methods other than humane euthanasia for long‐term management of this disease in pigs is poorly documented. Pigs are increasingly becoming popular pet animals, and veterinarians need to consider new modalities and treatment approaches for management of cutaneous neoplasms. This case report describes a comprehensive clinical workup, treatment and long‐term management of squamous cell carcinoma in a domesticated, pet American Yorkshire barrow not intended for food consumption.