Understanding Keloids in Dogs
Keloids are an abnormal type of scar that can develop in dogs after skin trauma or injury. Unlike regular scars, keloids grow beyond the boundaries of the original wound and project above the level of the surrounding skin. They form when too much collagen builds up in one area during the healing process.
Keloids tend to be benign but can cause discomfort for dogs. Certain breeds seem to be more prone to developing keloids. While there is no cure, various treatments are available to shrink keloids and relieve symptoms when they cause problems for canine companions.
What Causes Keloids in Dogs?
Keloids arise from excess collagen produced at the site of a healed skin wound. They are more common in certain locations and in some breeds.
Common causes and risk factors for the development of keloids in dogs include:
- Genetics - some breeds are genetically predisposed
- Skin trauma - wounds, surgical incisions, burns, abrasions
- Body locations - chest, legs, neck, tail
- Chronic inflammation or irritation
- Age - more common in younger dogs
- Hormones - increased risk after neutering/spaying
Breeds Prone to Keloids
While any dog can develop keloids, certain breeds are genetically more prone, including:
- English Bulldogs
- Terriers - Boston Terriers, Bull Terriers
- Pugs
- Great Danes
- Doberman Pinschers
- Labrador Retrievers
- Boxers
Common Locations for Keloids
The chest and legs are common sites for keloids due to the thinner skin in these areas. Other typical locations include:
- Neck
- Tail - docking procedures
- Dewclaws
- Spay/Neuter incisions
- Microchip implants
- Ears - cropped or traumatic injury
Symptoms of Keloids in Dogs
Keloids tend to develop slowly over time. Signs and symptoms may include:
- Raised scar tissue that grows beyond original injury site
- Smooth, hairless surface
- Firm, rubbery texture
- Shiny, flesh-colored appearance
- Itching or irritation
- Pain or discomfort if bumped or rubbed
- Restricted mobility if located over a joint
Appearance of Keloids
Keloids often start out small and enlarge progressively. They may appear pink, red, or flesh-colored. The surface is smooth and hairless.
Keloids tend to be rounded and dome-shaped. They are typically firmer than surrounding tissue. Thinner keloids may have a waxy, semi-translucent look.
Itching and Discomfort
The excessive collagen in keloids can create tension in the skin. Dogs may scratch, bite, or rub keloids in response to itching or discomfort.
Friction from collars and harnesses can also irritate keloids. For severely affected dogs, movement may be restricted if keloids develop over joints.
Potential for Ulceration
Keloids do not normally ulcerate. However, they may become opened or ulcerated if a dog excessively scratches, licks, or bites at them. This creates a wound risk for infection.
Diagnosing Keloids in Dogs
To confirm keloids, veterinarians typically evaluate factors like:
- Location - site of previous skin trauma
- Appearance - distinctive scar-like features
- Breed predisposition
- Age of dog
- Progression over time
- Response to steroid injections
Ruling Out Other Skin Growths
The vet may conduct tests to help rule out other types of skin masses, including:
- Cancerous tumors
- Benign fatty tumors (lipomas)
- Warts
- Histiocytomas
- Abscesses
- Cysts
Biopsy
In uncertain cases, a small sample may be taken and evaluated through biopsy. This examines the tissue under a microscope to confirm it is a benign keloid scar.
Treatment Options for Keloids in Dogs
While there is no cure for keloids in dogs, various treatments can help reduce symptoms and shrink their size. Options may include:
Steroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections into the keloid can help soften the scar tissue and flatten lesions. Effects are temporary but injections can be repeated.
Cryotherapy
Freezing keloids with liquid nitrogen may help reduce irritation, inflammation, and size. Can be used along with steroids.
Radiation
Low doses of radiation can help soften scar tissue and slowly shrink the size. Requires multiple treatments.
Surgery
Surgical removal may be done but keloids often recur. Best combined with other treatments to limit regrowth.
Laser Therapy
Laser treatment generates heat to destroy excess scar tissue while leaving surrounding skin intact.
Compression
Wrapping keloids with tape, bandages or compression garments can help flatten lesions.
Medications
Oral drugs like chemotherapy medications, interferon, and antihistamines may minimize collagen production and immune reactions.
Dietary Supplements
Supplements containing collagenase, vitamin E, or cinnamon extract may aid normal scar healing.
Preventing Keloids in Dogs
Since keloids form after skin trauma, prevention involves:
- Avoiding unnecessary injury to high-risk skin sites
- Protecting skin during playtime with other pets
- Using caution around hot surfaces that could burn
- Treating any wounds properly to optimize healing
- Preventing licking, scratching, biting wounds
- Using an Elizabethan collar after injuries or surgery
- Keeping spay/neuter incisions clean and dry
- Avoiding trauma from collars or harnesses rubbing
Dog owners should watch for keloid development in breeds prone to scarring and take steps to minimize skin irritation.
Outlook for Dogs with Keloids
Keloids do not normally pose serious medical problems for dogs. They tend to be benign and non-cancerous.
With treatment, keloids can be managed reasonably well in most dogs. Symptoms may recur over time but can be controlled with ongoing care.
In rare cases, very large or invasive keloids could impact mobility or quality of life. Overall, keloids may be considered more of a cosmetic issue unless they ulcerate, inhibit movement, or cause substantial discomfort.
While keloids in dogs cannot be cured
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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