Tumors in African Pygmy Hedgehogs

Tumors in African Pygmy Hedgehogs
At Kwankhum Clinic, I recently treated a hedgehog with an abnormal mass on its lower jaw. This growth caused the mouth to become distorted and misshapen, as seen in the images. What do you think could have caused this?

The tumor gradually developed along the lower jaw, leading to the deformation of the molars and jawbone, a skewed mouth, and bone degeneration.

Diagnosis: Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Biopsy results for this case confirmed a type of cancer called Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC).

Tumors are incredibly common in hedgehogs, much like in hamsters. The risk increases significantly with age; once they pass 3 years old, tumors are frequently detected in areas such as the mammary glands, mouth, gastrointestinal tract, lungs, and lymph nodes.


Key Facts about Oral SCC in Hedgehogs
Common Locations: While SCC most frequently affects the oral cavity, there are also reports of cutaneous (skin) versions—similar to those found in rats—appearing on the neck or back. These tumors primarily arise from epithelial cells.
Prevalence: Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma is the third most common neoplastic issue in hedgehogs, following mammary gland adenocarcinoma and lymphoma.
Behavior: This cancer tends to be invasive and metastasizes slowly. Because of this, owners often seek veterinary help late in the progression; the animal may still appear to eat and defecate normally for a long time.
Prognosis: Even after surgical removal of the tumor, the animal may seem to improve temporarily, but there is a high rate of recurrence. Some reports also indicate metastasis to the lymph nodes and lungs.