Oral Papillomas

Condition Overview

Oral papillomas are painless warts that grow on the lips and in the mouths of dogs younger than 2 years old.

Symptoms

Initially, papillomas are small and pink. Over 4 - 6 weeks, they increase in size and take on a rough, grayish-white, cauliflower-like appearance. As many as 50 - 100 papillomas may be present.

All symptoms +

Causes

Oral papillomas are caused by the canine oral papilloma virus. Skin papillomas caused by the same virus are common and occur on the surface of the eyelids and the skin of the body.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made by physical examination.

Treatment

Oral papillomas usually dissapear spontaneously in 6 - 12 weeks. if they fail to do so, they can be removed by surgery, freezing, or electrocautery. Chemotherapy is effective in dogs with numerous lesions.

Prevention

The dog's immune system makes antibodies that prevent reinfection.

Support

Please contact your veterinarian if you have questions regarding this condition.