Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Canine olfactory detection of malignant melanoma
- Journal:
- BMJ Case Reports
- Year:
- 2013
- Authors:
- Campbell, Leon Frederick et al.
- Affiliation:
- Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, UK · United Kingdom
- Species:
- dog
Abstract
Our patient is a 75-year-old man who presented after his pet dog licked persistently at an asymptomatic lesion behind his right ear. Examination revealed a nodular lesion in the postauricular sulcus. Histology confirmed malignant melanoma, which was subsequently excised. Canine olfactory detection of human malignancy is a well-documented phenomenon. Advanced olfaction is hypothesised to explain canine detection of bladder, breast, colorectal, lung, ovarian, prostate and skin cancers. Further research in this area may facilitate the development of a highly accurate aid to diagnosis for many malignancies, including melanoma.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://doi.org/10.1136/bcr-2013-008566