Squamous cell carcinoma in the foot of a cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) from northeastern Brazil

A 16-year-old male cockatiel (Nymphicushollandicus) was presented with a multinodular mass at the base of the second and third digits of the right foot. Manipulation resulted in amputation of the toes. The bird showed emaciation, respiratory signs, and died. Histology revealed an infiltrative neoplasm in the deep dermis and underlying bone tissue composed of epithelial cells arranged in cords and nests. Neoplastic cells demonstrated intense immunolabeling for the anti-pan cytokeratin antibody. A severe necroheterophilic bronchopneumonia was also observed. The diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma was based on the epidemiological, clinical, anatomopathological, and immunohistochemical findings. The late diagnosis of squamous cell carcinomas precludes the adoption of suitable treatment and determines the incidence of local and systemic complications. Overexposure to ultraviolet light should be investigated as a possible risk factor for the incidence of these neoplasms in birds.