What are the symptoms of melanoma?

Dark mass or patch (sometimes without pigment) in the mouth, lips, toes or skin. In the mouth: bad breath, bleeding, difficulty eating. On a toe: swelling, lameness, loss of the nail. Growth of the lump

Is Melanoma contagious?

Melanoma does not spread directly between animals.

Tumores y cáncer

Melanoma

Tumour of the pigment-producing cells. In dogs, its severity depends greatly on location: those of the mouth and toes are usually aggressive, whereas those of the haired skin are usually more benign.

Severe🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

Symptoms to watch for

• Dark mass or patch (sometimes without pigment) in the mouth, lips, toes or skin
• In the mouth: bad breath, bleeding, difficulty eating
• On a toe: swelling, lameness, loss of the nail
• Growth of the lump

Causes

Tumour of the melanocytes. The location (mouth, skin-mucosa junction, nail bed) is associated with greater aggressiveness.

Diagnosis

Biopsy to confirm and determine the type. Staging tests (lymph nodes, chest).

Treatment

Surgery to remove it with wide margins. Depending on the location and extent, radiotherapy, immunotherapy or other treatments may be added. The prognosis depends greatly on the location.

Prevention

Check the mouth and toes regularly; any new patch or lump in these areas deserves attention.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet without delay for any dark mass in the mouth, lips or toes. Early detection is especially important at these locations.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.