Papillomavirus: Clinical Presentations and Treatment Approaches.

Abstract

Papillomaviruses (PV) affect dogs and cats. Oral papillomas are common in young dogs and generally do not require treatment because they resolve spontaneously. The virus is spread via direct contact during play, or via indirect contact (from the environment, through fomites). Cutaneous papillomas are less common and less likely to resolve spontaneously. Cryosurgery, COlaser ablation, surgical excision, or topical imiquimod are options for bothersome or nonregressing papillomas. Papillomas in older dogs occur due to systemic immunosuppression and diagnostic investigation is warranted. Cutaneous or oral papillomas in cats are uncommon and feline PV are associated with certain skin neoplasms.