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Ask the Veterinarian/lump on top of paw

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Expert: - 3/24/2010


Question

lump on top of paw
My chihuahua has a lump on top of his paw.  Its pinkish, hard with no hair and about 1/2 inch wide and looks like a giant domed pea.  He has had it for awhile.  It started out small and grew larger.  Before I take him to the vet is is ok to poke it with a sterile needle to see if its pus?  I realize if it is he will still have to be seen to get a antibiotic.  What do you think it is?   He is 1 year old.

Answer
This looks like a growth called a histiocytoma.  This is one of the "bald man" looking tumors. These are common on the lower portion of the legs. It probably should be removed before it gets any larger. It could be a cyst, but usually cysts have hair on them.  This lesion does not.

Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf

Expertise

Dermatology and ear diseases of dogs and cats

Experience

I am the author of "Small Animal Ear Diseases; An Illustrated Guide" published by W.B. Saunders. I have over 25 years of clinical experience with a special interest in dermatologic conditions and ear diseases.

Organizations
American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology

Publications
Veterinary Forum
Veterinary Medicine
Waltham Focus

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