Ocular Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinomas are the most common tumors of the equine eye. They originate from the eyelids, conjunctiva or third eyelid. Ultraviolet radiation is a risk factor, especially in these bright, unpigmented areas. If the tumors are still small and not inflamed, they usually do not affect the horse. However, because they often grow rapidly and invasively, waiting worsens the prognosis. Ocular SCC can metastasize, but in many cases the primary tumor is the problem.