Papillomavirus-associated cutaneous pigmented plaques in Dogs

Category: Skin & Connective Tissue
Breeds documented: 2
Published sources: 2

Overview

Certain papillomaviruses can cause small, dark, slightly raised patches on the skin, known as pigmented plaques. These usually appear on the belly or inner legs. Most remain small and mainly change the skin's appearance, although extensive patches can itch or hurt. In rare cases, a plaque can develop into a type of skin cancer.

Signs to watch for

Several dark, slightly raised spots on the skin
Patches mainly on the belly or inside the legs
Patches that enlarge or become more raised in uncommon cases
Itching or discomfort when patches become extensive

These plaques tend to appear in middle-aged dogs.

When to get help Book a vet visit promptly for new dark skin bumps or enlarging plaques.

Diagnosis and tests

Vets can examine a small skin sample under a microscope to assess its structure and pigment. Laboratory tests may also look for papillomavirus DNA in the affected tissue. Finding viral DNA alone does not prove that the virus caused the change, so tissue findings matter too.

Breeds with documented risk

2 breeds

By breed size

1 Small
1 Medium

VizslaMedium · Sporting Group
PugSmall · Toy Group

Inheritance

Not yet known
None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.