Histiocytoma in Dogs

Written by Dr. Patty Khuly, VMD MBA

Summary

The histiocytoma is an unsightly but benign skin tumor that tends to arise on the skin of young dogs. While young dogs (under three years of age) are more likely to get these (especially on the face and extremities), histiocytoma in dogs can happen at any age in just about any location.

Technically, histiocytoma is an abnormal proliferation of histiocytes in the skin. Histiocytes are cells that function as part of the immunological barrier against invaders that would attempt an "attack" on the skin. In the case of canine histiocytomas, the reproductive self-regulatory mechanism of these histiocytes is clearly in disarray.

Though they're considered ugly by most owners' standards, these masses are benign. A dog histiocytoma will resolve if left untreated within two to three months or less.

Many closely related but far less benign conditions are referred to as histiocytic disorders. A canine histiocytoma may include malignant histiocytosis, cutaneous histiocytosis, systemic histiocytosis, histiocytic sarcoma, and histiocytic lymphoma.

Though they share the same family, these histiocytic disorders are far more aggressive conditions. Generally, dogs who suffer histiocytomas are not considered predisposed to these diseases.

Symptoms and Identification of Canine Histiocytoma

Histiocytoma in dogs typically appear as small, solitary, hairless lumps, usually on the head, neck, ears, and limbs. In some uncommon cases (in the case of Shar peis, in particular), multiple masses may be present simultaneously.

These masses are usually less than 2.5 cm in diameter and may or may not be red and ulcerated on their surface.

Cytology can be very helpful for initial diagnosis but isn't typically considered definitive. Observation of regression or full histopathology upon removal is usually required by way of achieving a definitive diagnosis.

Affected Breeds of Canine Histiocytoma

Any dog can be affected by these masses but some breeds are predisposed. Labrador Retrievers and Boxers, for example, make the shortlist. These tumors can also affect Shar Peis, Bulldogs, American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Scottish Terriers, Greyhounds, and Boston Terriers, among others.

Dog Histiocytoma Treatment

Histiocytoma in dogs typically appear as small, solitary, hairless lumps, usually on the head, neck, ears, and limbs. In some uncommon cases (in the case of Shar peis, in particular), multiple masses may be present simultaneously.

These masses are usually less than 2.5 cm in diameter and may or may not be red and ulcerated on their surface.

Cytology can be very helpful for initial diagnosis but isn't typically considered definitive. Observation of regression or full histopathology upon removal is usually required by way of achieving a definitive diagnosis.

Veterinary Cost of Canine Histiocytoma

The cost of histiocytomas depends, to a large extent, on whether they're surgically treated or not. This expense is typically relegated to the price of initial cytology (sometimes omitted), pre-anesthetic lab work, anesthesia, surgical excision (complete removal), and biopsy. A typical outlay usually ranges from $300 to $1,000, depending on the level of care elected (generalist vs. specialist) and the geographic locale.

Preventing Histiocytoma in Dogs

There are no known means of prevention for histiocytomas. However, limiting the breeding of dogs with a known hereditary predisposition to histiocytomas is doubtless of some assistance here.

Embrace Pet Insurance offers various dog insurance plans for conditions such as histiocytoma in dogs, with coverage every accident, illness, and condition, plus the diagnostic exam fees, treatments, and ongoing care. Check out our full-coverage pet insurance plans and pet insurance discounts to learn more about what plan works for you and your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions About Histiocytoma in Dogs

How to Treat Histiocytoma in Dogs at Home?

Histiocytoma in dogs typically regresses spontaneously within a couple of months, but that’s not always the case. Once your veterinarian says there is no immediate harm to your pet, you can follow a simple routine.

  1. Clean the histiocytoma with clean salt water.

  2. Put apple cider vinegar on a cotton pad and apply it to the histiocytoma, then stick it there with a band-aid.

  3. Keep your dog from picking at the histiocytoma to prevent it from getting infected.

How Quickly Do Histiocytomas in Dogs Grow?

A canine histiocytoma typically takes anywhere from one to four weeks to grow.

How Do I Prevent My Dog from Licking Their Histiocytoma?

To prevent your dog from licking, scratching, biting, or picking at its histiocytoma, it is recommended to put a cone on your dog. A cone is a highly effective method to aid in the treatment of a canine histiocytoma, among other illnesses in dogs.

Protect Your Furry Friend from Canine Histiocytoma

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References

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