dermoids

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CANINE DERMOIDS

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A dermoid is a choristoma, a condition in which normal skin develops in an abnormal location. Usually found along the conjunctiva (white of the eye) on the upper eyelid or along the lateral eyelid opening. Dermoids arise due to improper invagination of ectodermal skin tissue during fetal eye development. Dermoids may be present on the eyelid but most frequently they are located on the lateral conjunctiva or cornea. Dermoids are seen in all species as an incidental finding and are seen as an inherited condition in some dog breeds. Depending on the size and location, these growths are corrected surgically via canthoplasty and keratotomy. If left untreated, the abnormal haired skin (trichiaisis) causes irritation and can lead to corneal pathology.

What are Dermoids
Dermoid Masses

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What are dermoids?

http://www.upei.ca/cidd

A dermoid is an area or fold of normal skin that forms in an abnormal area, usually on the cornea or conjunctiva.

dermoids

Dermoids affect one or both eyes and usually cause irritation.

How are dermoids inherited?
The mode of inheritance is not defined.

What breeds are affected by dermoids?
There is a breed predisposition to this condition in the dalmatian, dachshund, St. Bernard, and German shepherd.

For many breeds and many disorders, the studies to determine the mode of inheritance or the frequency in the breed have not been carried out, or are inconclusive. We have listed breeds for which there is a consensus among those investigating in this field and among veterinary practitioners, that the condition is significant in this breed.

What do dermoids mean to your dog & you?
Very small dermoids may cause no problems. Larger ones are usually irritating to the surface of the eye and can interfere with vision.

How are dermoids diagnosed?
Dermoids are diagnosed by their appearance.

How are dermoids treated?
The abnormal patch of skin is removed surgically.

Breeding advice
The inheritance of this condition is not clear; however it is best not to breed affected dogs.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS DISORDER, PLEASE SEE YOUR VETERINARIAN.

Copyright © 1998 Canine Inherited Disorders Database. All rights reserved.
Revised: April 11, 2000.
Permission to reprint is granted by
Alice Crook, DVM Coordinator, Sir James Dunn Animal Welfare Centre
Atlantic Veterinary College University of Prince Edward Island

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Dermoid Masses

Race Foster, DVM, Marty Smith, DVM
Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

A dermoid is a growth on the cornea or conjunctiva, which consists of a mass of tissue containing fat, glandular tissue, hair follicles, and hair. Dermoids are congenital and can affect young puppies.

What are the symptoms?
An abnormal mass with hair on an inappropriate area of the eye is the symptom. The dermoid may be located on the eyelid margins or directly on the eyeball itself, usually on the cornea.

What are the risks?
The mass, depending on its location, can be a source of severe ocular pain. If on the lid margins, it prevents the normal blinking reflex and therefore proper eye lubrication. The hairs can cause severe irritation and possible ulceration of the cornea. Dermoids located on the cornea are a physical barrier preventing normal vision.

What is the management?
Surgery is the treatment of choice. The dermoid mass is dissected from the normal eye tissue. Those located on the cornea present the greatest challenge, but the outcome is generally favorable.

(c) 2008 Drs. Foster and Smith, Inc.
Reprinted as a courtesy and with permission from PetEducation.com (http://www.PetEducation.com)
On-line store at http://www.DrsFosterSmith.com Free pet supply catalog: 1-800-323-4208

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Surgical correction of corneal dermoid in a dog

The above information is simply informational. It's intent is not to replace the advice of a veterinarian nor to assist you in making a diagnosis of your pet. Please consult with your own veterinarian for confirmation of any diagnosis. Your pets life may depend on it.