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Veterinary Medicine
Instructions for Veterinary Clients

Sebaceous Gland Tumors
From Duclos: Canine and Feline Skin Diseases

General Information

Sebaceous gland tumors are often mistakenly referred to as warts or sebaceous cysts. Warts or sebaceous cysts are rare in dogs, while sebaceous gland tumors are very common in dogs and rare in cats. They seem to be more prevalent in certain breeds. Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, and Beagles are more likely to be affected.

These tumors are seen more often as the dog gets to be 7 to 8 years old or older. They may appear as a single growth but are more commonly multiple tumors. Individuals affected with these tumors will continually develop new tumors. It is common to remove 10 to 50 tumors only to find an equal amount 6 months to 1 year later.

The tumors are raised above the skin; most are 5 mm to 12 mm (1/8 to 1/2 inch) in diameter; round; with a smooth, often shiny, cobblestone surface. Most tumors are light pink in color, but in some individuals they may be partly or completely brown to black. These tumors consist of cells that produce a fatty secretion called sebum (hence the name sebaceous glands). The tumors are composed of many sebaceous glands, and there is often an accumulation of a greasy substance around the tumors. Although most of these tumors are noncancerous, some can be malignant. Malignant sebaceous gland tumors rarely spread, and surgical removal is curative. Often sebaceous gland tumors are simply left untreated. Malignant sebaceous gland tumors tend to bleed easily and bother the dog. They should be removed.

Important Points in Treatment

  1. Diagnosis is confirmed by physical examination and breed type. Biopsy may also be helpful in confirming a diagnosis.
  2. These tumors should be removed if they irritate the pet or bleed frequently. They are cause for concern because of continued trauma from grooming.
  3. Sebaceous gland tumors that occur on the eyelids should be removed when they are small, because larger tumors are more difficult to remove.
  4. Sebaceous gland tumors that bleed easily or irritate the pet are more likely to be malignant and should be removed.

Treatment Instructions

Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur

  • Your pet chews, licks, scratches, bites, or rubs these tumors.
  • The tumors bleed frequently.
  • Your pet develops small tumors around the eyes or on the eyelids.

Your next appointment is:


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