Dogs may develop skin lesions known as a benign melanocytoma. This is most common in dogs, horses and miniature pigs. The term benign melanocytoma refers to lesions that are not malignant (cancerous). Since it can be difficult for the average pet owner to determine if a lesion is benign or malignant, it is important to consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment plan of any lesions or tumors on your dog.
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Identification
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A benign melanocytoma is a skin lesion that most commonly occurs on the head and forelimbs of dogs. This type of tumor arises from skin cells of the basal layer of the skin that produces pigment. When found on the skin, most melanomas are benign. This condition is most common in middle aged to older dogs and is more common in male dogs than female dogs.
Symptoms
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A benign melanocytoma may occur anywhere on a dog's skin. This lesion may be dark with pigment or it may be light in color. Most benign melanocytomas are small, well defined lesions that are dark in color. There are usually no symptoms associated with a benign melanocytoma. Most lesions that arise in a hair-covered area on dogs are benign melanocytomas. Malignant melanomas are usually found in the mouth or on the toes and may cause the dog to feel unwell as time goes on.
Causes
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According to The Merck Veterinary Manual, certain breeds of dogs may be at an increased risk of developing benign melanocytomas. These may include miniature schnauzers, standard schnauzers, doberman pinschers, golden retrievers, Irish setters, and Vizslas. The exact cause of benign melanocytomas is unknown.
Diagnosis
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In order to diagnose a benign melanocytoma in your dog, your veterinarian will perform a physical examination and take a medical history of your dog. Routine diagnostic tests such as a CBC (complete blood count) and a urinalysis may be performed as well. A biopsy of the lesion may be done in order to determine if it is malignant or benign. A biopsy is a procedure that involves taking a sample of cells from the tumor or lesion and examining them under a microscope. The veterinarian can determine from the types of cells present if the lesion is a benign melanocytoma or a malignant melanoma.
Treatment
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Benign melanocytomas may appear as a single tumor or as multiple tumors on the dog's skin. Dogs that are at an increased risk of developing melanocytomas such as schnauzers are more likely to have multiple tumors. According to The Merck Veterinary Manual, benign melanocytomas are curable if the tumor is completely removed.
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