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Study identifies genetic risk factor for equine eye cancer
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common cancer of equine eyes.

Discovery will help to inform breeding decisions

Scientists at UD Davis School of Veterinary Medicine have identified the genetic risk factor for equine eye cancer.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common cancer of equine eyes and the second most common cancer in horses.

Writing in the International Journal of Cancer, researchers announced the discovery of a genetic mutation in horses that is thought to impact the ability of DNA-binding protein 2 (DDB2) to repair UV-light damage.

“The mutation is predicted to alter the shape of the protein so it can't recognise UV-damaged DNA,” said equine geneticist Dr Rebecca Bellone. “We believe this is a risk factor because cells can’t repair the damage and accumulate mutations in the DNA that lead to cancer.”

Ocular SCC can cause blindness and even the loss of the eye. In advanced cases, it can spread to the orbit, eat away at the bone - and eventually the brain - leading to loss of life. The results of this study will be able to inform owners in two ways, as research partner Dr Mary Lassaline explains:

“One, it’s important for the individual horse with a known risk and we can be more vigilant about exams as well as protecting their eyes from UV exposure.  If detected early, we can remove the tumour and save the eye. Secondly, that knowledge is important for making informed breeding decisions.”

Based on the research, scientists at UC Davis Genetics Laboratory were able to develop a genetic test. The test shows if a horse carries the mutation or has two copies of the risk variant, putting it at high risk of cancer.

It is also hoped the research will have implications for human health, as the gene found to be associated with equine SCC is also linked in humans to a skin cancer known as Xeroderma Pigmentosum group E. 

Image (C) UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
New guidance for antibiotic use in rabbits

New best practice guidance on the responsible use of antibiotics in rabbits has been published by the BSAVA in collaboration with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWA&F).

The guidance is free and has been produced to help veterinary practitioners select the most appropriate antibiotic for rabbits. It covers active substance, dose and route of administration all of which are crucial factors when treating rabbits owing to the risk of enterotoxaemia.

For more information and to access the guide, visit the BSAVALibrary.