Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Preventing and managing viral skin growths in cats
By Egberink, Herman et al.·Published in Journal of feline medicine and surgery·2013·European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases. h.f.egberink@uu.nl·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Feline viral papillomatosis: ABCD guidelines on prevention and management.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A cat with skin lesions was diagnosed with a papillomavirus infection, which can cause various types of growths on the skin. These lesions can range from benign growths to more serious conditions like squamous cell carcinoma. The cat's veterinarian may have recommended monitoring the lesions, as some can regress on their own, but for more severe cases, surgical removal might be necessary. It's important for pet owners to keep an eye on any unusual skin changes and consult their vet for proper diagnosis and treatment options.
People also search for: cat skin lesions treatment · feline papillomavirus symptoms · cat squamous cell carcinoma signs
Abstract
OVERVIEW: Papillomaviruses are epitheliotropic and cause cutaneous lesions in man and several animal species, including cats. INFECTION: Cats most likely become infected through lesions or abrasions of the skin. Species-specific viruses have been detected but human and bovine related sequences have also been found, suggesting cross-species transmission. CLINICAL SIGNS: In cats, papillomaviruses are associated with four different skin lesions: hyperkeratotic plaques, which can progress into Bowenoid in situ carcinomas (BISCs) and further to invasive squamous cell carcinomas (ISCCs); cutaneous fibropapillomas or feline sarcoids; and cutaneous papillomas. However, papillomaviruses have also been found in normal skin. DIAGNOSIS: Papillomavirus-induced skin lesions can be diagnosed by demonstration of papillomavirus antigen in biopsies of skin lesions, or detection of papillomavirus-like particles by electron microscopy and papillomavirus DNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). TREATMENT: Spontaneous regression might be expected. In cases of ISCC, complete excision should be considered if possible.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23813815/