Histopathological spectrum of squamous cell carcinoma in horn cancer of cattle

Abstract

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the horn constitutes a prevalent and economically pertinent neoplasm impacting Indian cattle, particularly among indigenous breeds. This investigation sought to elucidate the histopathological spectrum and grading of SCC within bovine horn tissue, with a focus on differentiation and subtype classification. A total of 48 horn tissue samples, suspected of harboring SCC, were procured from cattle between July 2024 and January 2025 and subsequently subjected to microscopic analysis. Based on parameters including cellular morphology, keratinization, mitotic index, anaplasia, and necrosis, the neoplasms were classified into well-differentiated (G0), moderately differentiated (G1), and poorly differentiated (G2) categories. Subtypes such as verrucous, pseudovascular, and desmoplastic SCC were also discerned. G0 tumors exhibited organized keratin pearl formation alongside minimal mitotic activity, indicative of low malignancy potential. G1 tumors presented increased pleomorphism and early invasion characteristics, whereas G2 tumors were marked by pronounced cellular atypia, elevated mitotic index, and extensive necrosis, suggesting a more aggressive phenotype.