Home » Diseases » In dogs » Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Nasal Cavity (Nasal and Paranasal Sinus Cancer Originating from Skin or Mucous Membrane Cells)

Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Nasal Cavity (Nasal and Paranasal Sinus Cancer Originating from Skin or Mucous Membrane Cells) in Dogs

Occurrence: rarer
Location of illness: Head/Neck

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

Squamous cell carcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity in dogs is a malignantMalignant means "cancerous" and is used to describe tumors or neoplasms that grow invasively and have the ability to metastasize. Malignant tumors can cause serious health problems in dogs and cats. tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. disease that originates from the skin or mucous membrane cells and affects the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. and paranasal sinuses.

The most important facts at a glance

Squamous cell carcinoma of the nasal cavity in dogs is a type of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. that is caused by uncontrolled cell proliferation in the mucous membranes. The exact causes are unclear, but genetic factors and environmental factors such as carcinogens and chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. Inflammatory conditions can play a role. Symptoms include Sneezing, nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. discharge, RespiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, and Weight loss. Rare symptoms include neurological problems and sudden Blindness. The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made by clinical examination, imaging procedures such as CT or MRI, and biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions.. Treatment depends on the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. stage and often includes surgical removal, radiation therapyRadiation therapy is the use of radiation, most often to treat cancer. It can be used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth without significantly damaging surrounding healthy tissue., and possibly chemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells.. SupportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. care improves the dog’s quality of life. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is better with early treatment, while advanced cases often have a poorer outlook. PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. is difficult because the causes are not fully understood, but regular veterinary examinations and healthy lifestyle habits can help. Research focuses on genetic factors, improved diagnostic techniques, and new treatment methods such as immunotherapies to better understand the disease and improve the quality of life of affected dogs.

Causes

Squamous cell carcinomas arise from the uncontrolled proliferation of cells in the epithelial layers of the mucous membranes. These cells are normally responsible for protecting and demarcating tissues. When they degenerate, they lose their normal control mechanisms and begin to invade surrounding structures, leading to tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. formation.

The exact cause of squamous cell carcinomas is not fully understood. It is suspected that genetic predispositions play a role, in which certain breeds are more susceptible to this type of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. due to their genetic makeup. Environmental factors, such as exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats. to carcinogens, may also play a role. These may include smoke, chemicals, or chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. Inflammatory conditions that irritate the mucous membranes and cause cell damage.

An additional cause could be infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. with certain viruses that are known to be associated with the development of squamous cell carcinomas in other species. There is evidence that viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. agents may also be involved in dogs, although further research is needed here.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of squamous cell carcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. in the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity can begin subtly and gradually worsen. A common sign is nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. discharge, which may initially be clear but often progresses to bloody or purulentPurulent refers to pus or the production of pus, which may indicate a bacterial infection. Purulent inflammatory conditions are often painful and may have significant swelling and redness. secretion. Dogs may also have unilateral nose Bleeding that cannot be explained by external injuries.

Other symptoms may include RespiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress and snoring sounds when breathing, which are caused by the narrowing of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. passages by the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions.. In advanced stages, the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. can cause visible Swelling in the face or deformities of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. area. Dogs may also show signs of Pain, loss of appetite, or Weight loss, which indicates a general malaise.

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of squamous cell carcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity often begins with a thorough clinical examination and a detailed historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits. to understand the symptoms and their course. Imaging diagnostics are crucial to locate the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. and determine its extent. X-rays, computed tomography (CT)Computed tomography (CT) is an imaging technique that uses X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the body. It enables a detailed view of bones, organs, and other structures and is used for the diagnosis of injuries, diseases, and for planning medical interventions., or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Magnetic resonance imaging is an imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used in veterinary medicine to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, and other organs. can be used to obtain a clear picture of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity and adjacent structures.

In addition, a biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. is necessary to make a definitive diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.. A tissue sample is taken from the suspicious area and examined histopathologically. This examination allows confirmation of the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. type and helps to shape the prognosis and treatment plan.

Therapy

The treatment of squamous cell carcinomas of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity in dogs depends on the extent of the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. and the general health of the animal. Surgical procedures to remove the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. are often the preferred option, especially if the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. is detected at an early stage and is surgically accessible. Unfortunately, complete removal is not always possible, especially with advanced tumors.

Radiation therapyRadiation therapy is the use of radiation, most often to treat cancer. It can be used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth without significantly damaging surrounding healthy tissue. can be used as a primaryPrimary refers to the first or original cause of a disease or condition, as opposed to secondary causes or symptoms that develop from it. treatment or as a supplement to surgery to destroy remaining tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. cells. ChemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells. may also be considered in some dogs, especially if the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. is inoperable or to slow growth and relieve symptoms.

In addition to direct tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. treatment, supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. care is important to maintain the dog’s quality of life. This may include Pain management, nutritional support, and treatment of secondary infections.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with squamous cell carcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. of the nasal cavity varies depending on the stage of the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. at diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and the possibility of complete removal. In general, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is better with early detection and treatment. Dogs whose tumors can be completely removed and who also receive radiation therapy have the best chance of longer survival.

Unfortunately, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is less favorable for advanced tumors that have invaded surrounding structures. The average survival is often less than one year, even with treatment. However, quality of life can be improved through palliativePalliative refers to treatments that aim to alleviate the symptoms of a disease without curing the disease itself. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life of patients with incurable diseases. measures and attentive care.

Prevention

Since the exact causes of squamous cell carcinomas in dogs are not fully known, specific preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. is difficult. Nevertheless, some general measures can contribute to health promotion. This includes avoiding exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats. to known carcinogens, such as tobacco smoke and harmful chemicals.

Regular veterinary examinations can help to detect health problems early. In breeds that may be genetically predisposed, close monitoring may be useful to quickly identify changes in the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity or behavior.

A balanced diet and a healthy living environment support the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. and can help to reduce the risk of cancer in general. While specific preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. measures against squamous cell carcinomas are still being researched, general health care remains an important part of animal care.

Verified literature sources:
– NCBI
– Journal of Veterinary Science

Outlook on current research

Research on squamous cell carcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. of the nasal cavity in dogs is currently focused on various areas, including the genetic factors that contribute to the development of this type of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas.. Scientists are investigating the genetic differences that are present in dogs who develop this type of cancer compared to those who do not. These studies could potentially offer new approaches to predicting the risk and preventing the disease.

Another important area of research is the development and improvement of diagnostic techniques. Current methods for diagnosing squamous cell carcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. typically include imaging procedures such as X-rays and CT scans, as well as biopsies. Researchers are working to develop more advanced and less invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. techniques to enable earlier and more accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.. These could include molecular imaging techniques or new biomarkers that can be detected in the blood or other body fluids.

In terms of treatment, new therapeutic approaches are being explored, including targeted therapies that directly target the cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. cells without damaging the surrounding healthy tissue. Immunotherapies, which stimulate the dog’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. to fight the cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. cells more effectively, are also a promising area of research. These treatments could in the future be an alternative or supplement to traditional treatments such as surgery, radiation or chemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells..

In addition, the role of environmental factors and lifestyle in the development of squamous cell carcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. is being investigated. Studies are trying to determine the influence of factors such as smoking in the household, air pollution and diet on the risk of this type of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas.. Such findings could lead to preventive measures that can reduce the risk for dogs.

Finally, researching the quality of life of dogs living with this disease is another important aspect of current research. This includes the development of methods for Pain relief and to improve the well-being of the animals during and after treatment. Researchers are working on developing protocols that help to maximize the quality of life of affected dogs while minimizing the burden of the disease itself and the treatment.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is squamous cell carcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity in dogs? Squamous cell carcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. of the nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity in dogs is a type of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. that develops from the skin or mucous membrane cells of the nasal and paranasal sinuses. This type of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. is known to be locally aggressive and can invade surrounding tissue.
What symptoms occur in dogs with this disease? The most common symptoms include nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. discharge (often bloody), Sneezing, RespiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, facial Swelling, and in severe cases, neurological symptoms if the tumor invades the brain.
How is squamous cell carcinomaA carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the epithelial cells that line the inner and outer surfaces of the body. Carcinomas are the most common form of cancer. of the nasal cavity diagnosed? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is usually made through a combination of clinical examination, imaging procedures such as X-rays or CT scans, and a biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. to determine the type of tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions. cells.
What treatment options are available for dogs with this cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas.? Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapyRadiation therapy is the use of radiation, most often to treat cancer. It can be used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth without significantly damaging surrounding healthy tissue., and chemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells.. The choice of treatment depends on the stage of the disease, the size and location of the tumorA tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and affect various functions., and the dog’s general health.
What are the survival prospects for dogs with this diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.? The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on many factors, including early detection and treatment. In general, the prospects are better if the cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. is detected and treated early. Without treatment, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is often unfavorable.
Can certain dog breeds be more susceptible to this type of cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas.? Yes, certain breeds such as the Airedale Terrier and the Basset Hound appear to have a higher risk of developing nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas., although the exact reasons for this are still unclear.
Are there ways to reduce the risk of this disease in dogs? While genetic factors cannot be controlled, the risk can potentially be reduced by avoiding environmental factors such as second-hand smoke and excessive air pollution, as well as by eating a healthy diet.
What side effects can occur during treatment? Side effects depend on the treatment chosen. Radiation therapyRadiation therapy is the use of radiation, most often to treat cancer. It can be used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth without significantly damaging surrounding healthy tissue. can cause skin irritation and Lethargy, while chemotherapyChemotherapy refers to the treatment of diseases, especially cancer, with chemical substances or drugs. It aims to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth, but can also affect healthy cells. can lead to Nausea and a weakened immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body.. Surgical procedures carry the risk of infections and Bleeding.
How can the quality of life of a dog with this disease be improved? Quality of life can be improved through early and appropriate Pain management, regular veterinary care, and care tailored to the dog’s needs. Physical therapies and special diets can also be helpful.
What research is currently being conducted on this topic? Current research includes the investigation of genetic predispositions, the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, and the investigation of the effects of environmental factors on the risk of nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. cavity cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas. in dogs.

When to visit the vet?

Non-urgent see a veterinarian within 2–3 days

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.