How Electrochemotherapy Helps With Skin Cancer in Horses

Skin cancer is one of the most common health concerns seen in horses today, especially those with lighter skin tones or chronic sun exposure. Early detection and effective treatment are key to preserving your horse’s comfort, performance, and long-term wellbeing. Our trusted veterinarian in Cave Creek offers an advanced solution that’s transforming equine cancer care: electrochemotherapy.

​​​​​​​What Is Electrochemotherapy?

Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is a specialized cancer treatment that combines traditional chemotherapy drugs with electrical pulses. The electric pulses temporarily open cell membranes, allowing the medication to penetrate cancerous cells more effectively. This process increases the drug’s impact while reducing the need for higher doses that can affect healthy tissue. Electrochemotherapy targets only the tumor site, making it a more localized and horse-friendly approach.

Greater Precision With Fewer Side Effects

Because the treatment focuses on the tumor itself, horses experience fewer systemic side effects. This targeted approach minimizes discomfort and helps your horse recover more comfortably.

Ideal for Common Equine Skin Tumors

ECT works well on many of the most common equine cancers, including:

• Sarcoids: the most frequently diagnosed skin tumor in horses.

• Melanomas: especially in grey horses.

• Squamous cell carcinoma: often found around the eyes or genital areas.

These tumors can be difficult to treat with surgery alone, making electrochemotherapy a welcome alternative.

Minimal Invasiveness and Quick Recovery

ECT is typically performed under sedation and local anesthesia. This reduces stress on your horse and allows for a faster, easier recovery compared to more invasive surgical procedures. Electrochemotherapy can enhance the success of other treatments or serve as a stand-alone option when surgery isn’t ideal.

The Benefits of Electrochemotherapy for Horses

• Highly effective tumor control

• Reduced recurrence rates for certain cancers

• Minimal stress on the horse

• Preserved tissue surrounding the tumor

• Excellent cosmetic outcomes

• A safe option for tumors in delicate or hard-to-reach areas

With its safety and high success rate, electrochemotherapy is becoming a preferred choice for equine cancer care.

Get in Touch with Chaparral Veterinary Medical Center

Skin cancer is a serious condition, but innovative treatments like electrochemotherapy are giving horses a better chance at long-term health and comfort. As a leading veterinarian in Cave Creek, AZ, we are committed to providing the most advanced options available for equine care.

To learn more about whether electrochemotherapy may be right for your horse, contact Chaparral Veterinary Medical Center today. Visit our facility in Cave Creek, Arizona, or call (480) 595-8600 to book an appointment.