Multiple subungual squamous cell carcinoma in a black Standard Poodle

Abstract

Seville, a 10 year old spayed female black standard poodle, presented to the Cornell University Hospital for Animals Oncology Service on May 14, 2009 with metastatic multiple subungual squamous cell carcinoma. This report presents information on digital neoplasia, and describes the rare and poorly detailed syndrome of multiple subungual squamous cell carcinoma, which is curiously common to black large-breed dogs. It relates the clinical dilemma of how to manage Seville’s disease while maintaining a good quality of life and structurally ensuring her ability to ambulate. This report details the history of a dog with metastatic multiple subungual squamous cell carcinoma, the diagnostics and minimum database utilized for work-up of such a case, and the potential treatment options, including surgical excision and chemotherapy.