This 13 year old cat has maxillary squamous cell carcinoma. The cancer has created an open defect in the oral cavity. These cats are painful as evidence by chatter reactions when the tissue is touched while under light general anesthesia. At times it is possible to debulk the mass and close normal mucosa to the level of the palatal defect. That was fortunately the case in this cat. Complete surgical excision is not an option in this case. Eliminating the defect in the oral cavity in this manner will provide comfort and a greatly enhance quality of life over the near term. Lifelong pain management with gabapentin, metacam and tramadol are part of patient mangagement in this case.
This mass encased the infraorbital neurovascular bundle and extended into the nasal cavity.
How long before the SCC broke open into the oral cavity again?
I had a geriatric cat (18 yr) go on for 2 years post mandibular resection of SCC.
It would be interesting to observe a larger population/data base while adding complementary therapies as outlined in the John Boik book of natural compounds for cancer. I used Essiac and Coenzyme q 10 as adjunctive therapies post mandibulectomy. Granted the mandible is more amenable to complete excision.
Your article perfectly shows what I needed to know, thanks!