A survey on neoplasia in domestic species over a 40-year period from 1935 to 1974 in the Republic of South Africa. IV. Tumours occurring in Equidae.

The research article presents a historical survey of tumors found in horses, mules, and donkeys from 1935 to 1974 in South Africa. The survey, which records 378 tumors in total, reveals that certain kinds of tumors such as sarcoids, squamous cell carcinomas, and fibromas, were particularly prevalent.

Methodology and Scope of the Study

• The study utilizes the registration files of the Section of Pathology of the Veterinary Research Institute in Onderstepoort, South Africa.
• This extensive survey spans four decades from 1935 to 1974.
• The study covers domestic equine animals including horses, donkeys, and mules. Of the 378 recorded tumors, 339 were found in horses, 32 in mules, and 7 in donkeys.

Findings of the Study

• The study found that the majority of the tumors recorded were sarcoids (38%), squamous cell carcinomas (23.5%), and fibromas (8.2%). These three types accounted for almost 70% of the total tumors tracked.
• Melanomas, papillomas, fibrosarcomas, and lymphosarcomas were also identified, accounting for 18.6% combined.

Location of Tumors

• The researchers not only identified the types of tumors, but also documented where these tumors were most likely to occur.
• 58 sarcoids’ sites were determined, of which: 46.5% were found on the head, 32.8% on the chest and abdomen, 19% on the limbs, and 1.7% on the neck.
• In the case of squamous cell carcinomas, 50% occurred in or around the eyes, especially on the eyelids or the nictitating membrane. Another 23% were found on the penis or prepuce, while a little over 20% occurred on the skin.
• Melanomas primarily involved the skin and eye, while papillomas mainly originated on the skin, with some occurrences on the penis.