Squamous cell carcinoma of the canine nasal planum: eight cases (1988-1994)

Squamous cell carcinoma of the nasal planum was diagnosed in eight dogs between March 1988 and January 1994. Epistaxis, sneezing, and ulceration or swelling of the nasal planum were the most common presenting complaints. Although no evidence of metastasis was identified, the primary tumor in all cases was locally invasive with extensive involvement of underlying tissues. Advanced imaging procedures performed in three cases indicated that physical examination may underestimate the local extent of the neoplasm. Euthanasia was performed in six cases due to progressive neoplastic disease with worsening epistaxis and sneezing; the mean survival time in these cases was 5.4 months.