Skin tumours in the horse: clinical presentation and management

NEOPLASTIC skin disorders in the horse can present a diagnostic challenge for the equine practitioner and can be a source of anxiety and frustration for the owner. Due to the obvious outward signs of skin disease, the owner or client is often quick to seek veterinary attention for such disorders. Although it can be difficult to differentiate between neoplastic and non‐neoplastic skin diseases, an accurate diagnosis is necessary because treatments for neoplastic skin diseases tend to be specific for the cell type. Some common aermatological tumours can be diagnosed with a high degree of confidence by the experienced equine practitioner based on the presenting history and gross clinical signs. Where possible, a histopathological diagnosis should be sought for confirmation. This article describes the management of those skin tumours most likely to be seen in practice.