Papilloma viruses have been reported in all domestic animals, birds, and fish. Papilloma viruses have considerable species, site, and histologic specificity. These viruses are transmitted by direct contact, fomites, and possibly by insects. Papillomatosis of skin or mucosal surfaces is typically seen in young animals. Papillomas are most common in cattle, horses, and dogs. Papillomavirus infection can have several clinical presentations in dogs. The most common presentation affects young dogs (less than 2 years of age). Canine oral papillomavirus induces warty lesions typically found on the lips, eyelids, or nasal planum. Lesions are usually less than 1 cm and may be sessile or pedunculated. The fimbriated surface may appear waxy due to hyperkeratosis. Most lesions regress spontaneously within weeks to months. Treatment with azithromycin has been shown to speed up regression. Rarely, papillomas transform into squamous cell carcinoma.
See chapters Papillomas, Papillomas in Dogs, and Cytology in The Veterinary Manual.
References
Richman AW, Kirby AL, Rosendrantz W, et. al. Persistent papilloma treated with cryotherapy in three dogs. Vet Dermatol. 2017 Dec;28(6):625–e154. doi: 10.1111/vde.12469
Thaiwong T, Sledge DG, Wise AG, et. al. Malignant transformation of canine oral papillomarivurs (CPV1)–associated papillomas in dogs: An emerging concern? Papillomavirus Res. 2018 Dec;6:83–89. doi: 10.1016/j.pvr.2018.10.007
Back