Dog Skin Tumors
"Dog skin tumors are lesions or swelling due to abnormal and uncontrolled cellular growth. It may be benign or malignant. Neoplasm and cancer are other terms used for tumors but they are used to describe malignant or spreading tumors. Canine skin tumors may be of various types, like squamous cells, mast cells, and sweat gland tumors, tumors of the melanocytes and tumors of the hair follicular cells. Skin tumors in dogs may be fatal if they are dispersed to other parts of body and may be caused by reasons such as nutrition problems, radiation, environmental causes, oncoviruses etc. Treatment of a canine skin tumor involves radiation therapy, chemotherapy with the most effective way being surgical operation.."
Types of Dog Skin Tumors:
There are primarily two types of canine skin tumors, benign and malignant. Benign tumors are usually encapsulated cellular growths, which appear as a lump or bulge on the skin surface. These are non fatal, easily diagnosed and curable forms of skin tumors. Skin Adenomas and hidradenomas are some examples of benign tumors in dogs. Malignant tumors are generally called cancers. These tumors are fatal, dispersing, diffusing and a spreading form of tumors. They are rarely cured and usually result in a grave prognosis. These may also cause secondary tumors or cancers, like that of lymphatic and circulatory system tumors. Hemangiosarcomas, Mast cell tumors and squamous cell carcinomas are some examples of malignant tumors.
Dog Skin Tumor Photo
Forms of Dog Skin Tumors
Different forms of canine skin tumors may occur. These are highly variable in their appearance, signs, onset and mode of activity. They are either benign or malignant, depending upon the nature of cell activity. It is estimated that the number of reported cases for dog tumors has significantly increased in recent years due to increased exposure to environmental pre disposing factors, awareness amongst dog owners and different carcinogens.
Histiocytoma; Histiocytomas are benign tumors, which appear as bumps on the ear, head and limbs. These are not painful, but may get ulcerated in latter stages. More than 50% of the dog population in the United States is susceptible for this type of dog skin tumor which originates from Langerharns cells.
Hemangiosarcoma; Hemangiosarcomas are malignant tumors, in dogs they may appear at the limbs, prepuce (skin that covers the clitoris) and abdomen. This form may appear at the skin surface and beneath the skin (Sub Cutaneous). Hemangiosarcomas are seen firm, raised and dark nodular structures at the skin surface and as rapidly growing nodules beneath they skin. They may appear as an injury or a wound, and may bleed excessively.
Mast Cell Tumors; Mast cells tumors are usually caused by histaminic secretions (fluid released by cells) in the dog’s body. Mast cell neoplasia of the internal organs and lymphatic system may also cause a neoplastic activity on the skin. The skin surface may appear as inflamed, allergic or appear as if it was bitten by an insect. Involvement of the lymph nodes on the lateral sides of the dog’s body helps in diagnosis.
Melanocytic Tumors; These may be benign or malignant, and involve the melanin or skin pigment producing cells, called melanocytes. The skin may appear rough, darkened and look like it has progressively degenerated (looks less healthy). These may appear anywhere on the body and may involve other parts of body like the lymphatic system, respiratory system and frequently the renal system (kidneys). Pigmented or non pigmented, solitary masses are revealed on physical palpation (touching) of the skin.
Squamous Cell Carcinomas; Malignant tumor of skin tissues, suspected for those dogs having erosive lesions on the skin which remain incurable even after months of treatment. The exact cause of these dog skin tumors is unknown, but more cases occur in sunny climates, therefore it is suspected that squamous cell carcinoma is caused by radiation. This for of tumor spreads easily,and can affect the lymph nodes and the muscoskeletal system.
Treatment of Dog Skin Tumors:
A general approach for treating a canine skin tumor involves three options:
1. Surgical resection is the preferred approach. In different forms of dog skin tumors, the extent of the surgery may differ. In mast cell tumors and squamous cell carcinomas, aggressive and timely surgical resection is required, while the amount of surgery required for a Histiocytoma is very low. Tests for blood type, hemoglobin level and screening are required prior to surgery, along with willingness of the dog owner.
2. Radiation Therapy is the second most effective way to treat dog skin cancers. X–rays and gamma rays can effectively be used as a primary option for treatment. Radiations is mostly used to eliminate deep malignant tissues, as a secondary option along with a surgical procedure.
3. Chemotherapy is another option. Anti cancer drugs can be used for this purpose, but have many adverse effects.
Nutritional supplements such as C-Caps, supportive therapy and other home remedies can only help in restoring physiological condition and possibly provide some level of support, but can never cure a dog skin tumor.
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References:
J. Morris, Small Animal Oncology (Blackwell Science Ltd. 2001)
