Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 9/24/2005

Question
I have a 16 year old Yorkie who is not "old" she is still spunky and active.  However within the past year she has developed 2 cysts on her head which were drained for clear fluid. They returned within 3 months. She now also has what I will call "warts" on her body. They are scattered in various places.  They look like raised cauliflower uneven bumps on her skin. They will bleed if picked or broken. I was wondering if there is cream of something to get rid of these things.  Thanks.

Answer
Older dogs get small skin tumors on their skin.  Fortumately most of them are benign.  You are describing either a pappilloma or a sebaceous adenoma.  I remove these using a laser to vaporize the tumors.  It is done with a local nerve block to minimize any anesthetic risk.  Cysts have to be entirely removed so that the secretory tissue will not produce more fluid.  I do those with a laser also.  Ask around to see if there is a vet with a laser in your area.