Melanoma
Spot the difference before it's a problem – don't let black lumps turn into dark days! Early detection walks hand-in-paw with peace of mind.
Melanoma is a type of cancer that starts in cells called melanocytes, which make pigment in the skin. While it usually affects the skin, melanoma can also appear in other areas like the eyes or mouth.
In pets, melanoma often shows up as dark lumps on the skin, in the mouth, or around the nails. Sometimes, these lumps are not dark and can look unusual or uneven.
Symptoms
Mouth Melanoma: Trouble eating, bad breath, drooling a lot, swelling or bleeding in the mouth.
Nail Melanoma: Limping, swelling, or nails falling off.
Skin Melanoma: Lumps or sores on the skin that may bleed or look irritated.
If you notice any of these signs, see your vet as soon as possible.
Treatment with us
Treatment depends on where the melanoma is, how big it is, and if it has spread. Common treatments include:
Surgery: Removing the melanoma with an operation is often the first step.
Radiation: Used if surgery is not possible due to the location of the melanoma or if the tumour was not fully removed during surgery.
Medication: Sometimes chemotherapy or other drugs are used. These options are used as an adjunct and may not work as well as a sole treatment for melanoma.
Melanoma Vaccines: A newer option that helps the body’s immune system fight the cancer.
Melanoma Vaccines
Vaccines like the Oncept® melanoma vaccine are an exciting new way to treat melanoma in dogs. These vaccines work by teaching the body’s immune system to attack the cancer cells.
How It Works – The vaccine targets a protein found in melanoma cells. This helps the body see the cancer as a threat and fight it.
How It’s Given – Our vet will give a series of four injections over several weeks, followed by booster injections every six months.
Benefits – The vaccine can help pets live longer and reduce the chances of the cancer coming back.
Finding and treating melanoma early is very important. Regular vet check-ups and watching for any changes in your pet’s lumps or behavior can make a big difference. If your pet is diagnosed with melanoma, we recommend discussing treatment options with your vet to ensure your pet receives the best treatment option available.
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