Câncer de Pele em Animais: Tipos, Sinais e Tratamento
Tumores de pele são comuns em animais. Aprenda a distinguir caroços benignos de cânceres perigosos que precisam de tratamento imediato.
Skin tumors are one of the most common reasons pets visit the vet. While many are benign, some are aggressive cancers that spread quickly. Early detection and proper diagnosis (biopsy) are critical for the best outcome. RVC performs lump evaluations, biopsies, and tumor removal surgery. Call +853 6677 6611.
Key Points
- Skin lumps should always be checked — many are benign but some are cancerous
- Mast cell tumors, melanomas, and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common skin cancers
- Early removal of malignant tumors greatly improves prognosis
- Fine needle aspiration or biopsy is needed for definitive diagnosis
- UV exposure causes skin cancer in light-colored cats and dogs
- Regular lump checks at home help catch problems early
Common Skin Cancers
Mast cell tumors (MCT): the most common skin cancer in dogs. They can look like anything — small bumps, large masses, ulcerated lesions. Some are benign, others are aggressive. Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Boxers are predisposed. Melanoma: usually black or dark-colored masses. Oral melanomas are very aggressive; skin melanomas are often benign. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): aggressive cancer common in white cats (ear tips, nose, eyelids) and dogs. Caused by sun exposure.
Benign vs Malignant Lumps
Benign lumps: lipomas (fatty tumors — soft, movable, slow-growing), sebaceous cysts, histiocytomas (common in young dogs, usually resolve on their own), and papillomas (wart-like, often viral). Malignant lumps: hard, fixed to underlying tissue, grow rapidly, ulcerate or bleed, and cause discomfort. However, looks can be deceiving — some benign lumps look scary, and some cancers look innocent. Never assume a lump is benign without testing.
Diagnostic Testing
Fine needle aspiration (FNA): a small needle extracts cells for examination. Fast, inexpensive, and often diagnostic. Biopsy: removes a tissue sample (wedge or entire lump) for histopathology. This is the gold standard for diagnosis and determines if margins are clean. For suspected mast cell tumors, additional tests include ultrasound (check internal organs), blood tests, and X-rays to stage the cancer.
Treatment Options
Surgical removal is the primary treatment for most skin cancers. Wide margins are taken for malignant tumors to ensure complete removal. For tumors that can't be completely removed (face, paws), radiation therapy may be recommended. Chemotherapy is used for aggressive cancers that have spread. For sun-induced SCC in cats, sunscreen and keeping cats indoors during peak sun hours help prevent new tumors. Early detection and complete removal offer the best prognosis.
When to See a Vet Immediately
- Any new lump or bump on your pet's skin
- A lump that is growing rapidly
- A lump that is hard, fixed, or ulcerated
- A lump that is bleeding or causing pain
- Recurrence of a previously removed lump
- Multiple new lumps appearing over weeks or months
How RVC Can Help
RVC performs lump evaluations, FNA, biopsies, and surgical removal of skin tumors. If you find a new lump on your pet, schedule an exam at +853 6677 6611.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. If your pet is showing any symptoms, please contact Royal Veterinary Center immediately at +853 6677 6611.