Bovine ocular squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

Ocular squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in animals is a primary neoplasm of epithelial origin. OSCC or "cancer eye" is the most common malignant tumor affecting cattle in North America and is responsible for significant economic losses. In the United States, the prevalence of OSCC varies geographically and is higher in the southwestern region and in lower latitudes with higher levels of sunlight. Control of this disease would be of considerable significance to the economics and profitability of the beef and dairy cattle industries. This article reviews the characteristics of the most commonly affected animals, the factors that are believed to contribute to the development of OSCC, and the treatment options that have been proposed.