NAVLE Integumentary

Feline Skin Tumors Study Guide

Cutaneous neoplasms are among the most common tumors encountered in feline practice. The four most common skin tumor types in cats are basal cell tumors (most common benign tumor), mast cell tumors (second most common), squamous cell carcinoma (most...

Overview and Clinical Importance

Cutaneous neoplasms are among the most common tumors encountered in feline practice. The four most common skin tumor types in cats are basal cell tumors (most common benign tumor), mast cell tumors (second most common), squamous cell carcinoma (most common malignant epithelial tumor), and fibrosarcoma (most common soft tissue sarcoma). Understanding the clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, treatment options, and prognosis for each tumor type is essential for NAVLE success.

Subtype Characteristics Prognosis
Mastocytic Well-Differentiated (Compact) 60% of feline cutaneous MCTs Circumscribed, non-encapsulated Low mitotic activity (less than 1/10 HPF) Good - benign behavior, surgical excision often curative
Mastocytic Poorly-Differentiated (Pleomorphic) Less than 28% of feline cutaneous MCTs Cellular pleomorphism, giant cells Contains eosinophils Guarded - high mitotic rate associated with metastasis
Atypical (Histiocytic) 10-20% of feline MCTs Young cats (less than 4 years) Papulonodular lesions on head Excellent - spontaneous regression within 4-24 months; Siamese predisposed

Cutaneous Mast Cell Tumors

Mast cell tumors (MCTs) are the second most common cutaneous tumor in cats, accounting for approximately 20% of all skin neoplasms. Unlike canine MCTs, feline cutaneous MCTs generally have a more benign biological behavior, though prognosis varies by histologic subtype.

Classification and Histologic Subtypes

Clinical Presentation

Location: Most commonly on the head, neck, and trunk.

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