Electrochemotherapy Intralesional Treatment in a Captive Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) with Dermal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

Simple Summary: Birds of prey in captivity often live much longer than in the wild. However, they may also face a higher risk of developing tumors, such as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). SCC is a common type of cancer in pet birds and has been reported in raptors like peregrine falcons, usually affecting the flank or thigh. Surgery is the main treatment, but it's not always possible due to the tumor's location or size. Electrochemotherapy (ECT), which improves drug delivery using electric pulses, is emerging as a promising option. This case report presents the successful use of ECT with bleomycin in a peregrine falcon with SCC, suggesting it could be a valuable treatment for cancer in birds of prey.Captive birds of prey often exceed their wild counterparts' lifespan, as seen in bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus, similar to 20 years wild vs. similar to 40 years captive), golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos, similar to 32 years wild vs. similar to 46 years captive), and Andean condors (Vultur gryphus, similar to 50 years wild vs. similar to 79 years captive), highlighting the impact of controlled environments on longevity. However, recent evidence suggests a rising incidence of neoplastic processes in these species. While previous studies have indicated a higher-than-expected prevalence of neoplasia in raptors, comprehensive research on this topic remains scarce. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a frequently reported neoplasm in pet birds, has been documented in birds of prey, though the literature on its prevalence and management is limited. Retrospective studies have identified SCC cases in peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus), primarily affecting the flank or thigh, with locally invasive behavior and rare distant metastasis. Complete surgical excision is the preferred treatment for SCCs, yet its feasibility is often constrained by tumor invasiveness and anatomical limitations. Electrochemotherapy (ECT) has emerged as a promising alternative, utilizing electroporation to enhance intracellular drug uptake while minimizing systemic toxicity. Bleomycin and cisplatin have been successfully used in avian intralesional chemotherapy, offering a potentially safer and effective treatment approach. ECT has demonstrated efficacy in various exotic species, yet its application in raptors remains largely unexplored. This case report describes the use of electrochemotherapy with bleomycin in a peregrine falcon diagnosed with SCC, contributing to the growing body of evidence supporting its clinical utility in avian oncology.