Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment of Nasal Squamous Cell Carcinoma in a Vietnamese Pot-Bellied Pig.

BACKGROUND

Though neoplasms in pigs are increasingly recognized, there are no previous clinical descriptions of nasal squamous cell carcinoma.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 4-year-old 71 kg Vietnamese Pot-bellied pig barrow presented with a history of mild intermittent epistaxis. A mass was identified in the left nasal passage during computed tomography. Rhinoscopic guidance biopsy confirmed squamous cell carcinoma. Surgical excision via dorsal rhinotomy was performed. Nasal swelling prompted repeated computed tomography 1 year later. Mass recurrence was detected, and the pig underwent a second surgical excision with adjunctive cryotherapy. The patient developed a small permanent nasocutaneous fistula, with no evidence of tumor recurrence 1 year following the second surgery.

CONCLUSION

This is the first reported case of a Vietnamese Pot-bellied pig undergoing treatment for nasal squamous cell carcinoma. A multimodal diagnostic and therapeutic approach was applied, including advanced imaging, rhinoscopy, surgical intervention, and vigilant post-operative monitoring, which resulted in successful management and a favorable long-term outcome. Neoplasia should be considered as a differential diagnosis in pigs presenting with nonspecific nasal signs.