Sebaceous Cysts in Dogs

Written By hannah hollinger
Published: 12/28/2015Updated: 08/25/2021
Veterinary reviewed by Michele K.
Sebaceous Cysts in Dogs - Signs, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Recovery, Management, Cost

What are Sebaceous Cysts?

Sebaceous cysts are also referred to as sebaceous gland tumors in dogs. These lesions can be found in any age of dog, and can be seen as single growths or occur in multiples. If you see a growth on your pet, consult your veterinarian. Sebaceous cysts can range from a benign problem to a cancerous tumor.

A sebaceous cyst is a common occurrence in dogs. The sebaceous gland contains sebum, with the purpose of lubricating the hair follicles, hair shaft, and skin. Inflammation can occur when cysts form a sac-like growth under the skin or become impacted.

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Sebaceous Cysts Average Cost

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Average Cost

$650

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Symptoms of Sebaceous Cysts in Dogs

The appearance of a sebaceous cyst can vary depending on the type.

  • There may be a raised area of skin or nodule
  • Cysts may be round or elongated
  • Some cysts are slightly mobile under the skin
  • Size can vary from less than ½ an inch to over 2 inches
  • You may see multiple growths
  • There may be inflammation
  • A cyst may become infected
  • A cyst may bleed
  • The cyst may ooze a yellow substance

Types

Sebaceous cysts are prone to secondary infection. It is recommended that you have a veterinarian check any type of growth that may appear on your dog.

  • Sebaceous gland overgrowth or hyperplasia
    • These usually appear on older dogs
    • They present as a shiny lump
    • This type of cyst is most often seen on the head and abdomen
    • Manchester, Wheaton, and Welsh Terriers are prone
  • Sebaceous gland adenoma/epithelioma
    • These are usually found on older dogs
    • The cysts are found on the head and may be infected or covered with crust
    • They can sometimes be found on the eyelid
    • Alaskan Malamute, Samoyed, Husky, Coonhound and English Cocker Spaniel are the breeds that are predisposed
  • Sebaceous gland hamartoma
    • This type of cyst is often noticed after birth
    • They are usually about 2 inches in length or diameter
  • Sebaceous gland adenocarcinoma
    • These are malignant cysts found in middle age to older dogs
    • Males are predisposed
    • Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Cocker Spaniels, Scottish, Cairn and West Highland White Terriers are the most likely breed to have this cyst though it is rare
    • This cyst can metastasize to the lymph nodes and lungs

Causes of Sebaceous Cysts in Dogs

Not only can cysts be unsightly, but they can also emit a foul odor or pus. Secondary infection or the possibility of a malignancy are good reasons to have a cyst investigated by the veterinarian.

  • Genetic predisposition
  • Injury or trauma
  • Blockage of a follicle opening (similar to a blocked pore in humans)
  • Insect bite reaction
  • Allergic reaction
  • Follicular inactivity
  • Lack of sebum secretion (for example sebaceous adenitis)
  • Swollen hair follicle
  • Hormonal imbalance

Diagnosis of Sebaceous Cysts in Dogs

The veterinarian will carefully check the entire body of your furry family member to determine the location, number, and appearance of the cysts.

Studies have determined that the best method of evaluating the tissues that make up the cyst is histopathology. This involves a microscopic examination of the tissue (removed by needle aspirate for biopsy, or completely extracted surgically) in order to determine the nature of the cyst. Determining the cause, discovering the prognosis, and ruling out other skin conditions are quite possible with histopathology.

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Treatment of Sebaceous Cysts in Dogs

Treatment will depend upon the state of the cysts, the number of cysts, and the health condition of your beloved pet.

If the cyst appears to be relatively new in appearance, you and the veterinary caregiver may take a wait and see approach, which basically means delaying any further treatment until the cyst, if it does, develops.

At a later time, the veterinarian may choose to open and drain the cyst and treat it with a topical medication.

If the cyst has ruptured by the time you make the visit to the clinic, the veterinarian may decide to treat any inflammation or infection that is present, and then surgically remove the cyst. Sometimes a cyst might need to be treated for infection first, and then when that is cleared up, have a surgical procedure for removal.

If a cyst is found to be a malignant adenocarcinoma, chemotherapy and radiation will most likely follow the best option, which is surgery.

It should be noted that with sebaceous gland overgrowth or adenoma, recurrence is common. The prognosis of removal is usually good, but the recurrence factor must be kept in mind. Also, if many cysts are present, removal is not an easy task.

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Recovery of Sebaceous Cysts in Dogs

If the cysts found on your dog are cancerous, then the recovery and management will involve subsequent treatment with follow up appointments to determine if the cancer is being eradicated.

In the case of the simple removal of a few cysts, you will be required to keep the area clean. However, you will be advised not to bathe your dog until the veterinary caregiver gives permission.

Your canine companion may have to wear an Elizabethan collar to prevent him from licking or biting the area as it heals. Check the surgery site daily for swelling, redness or bleeding. Consult with the veterinary team if you are unsure of the condition of the surgery site, or if you feel the wound is not improving. The veterinarian will prescribe additional topical medication or antibiotics if necessary.

Though the area where the cysts were located will eventually heal, it is not uncommon for them to resurface, or for new cysts to appear.

Sebaceous Cysts Average Cost

From 367 quotes ranging from $200 - $1,500

Average Cost

$650

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Sebaceous Cysts Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals

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Jack Russell Terrier

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Maggie

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13 Years

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1 found this helpful

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1 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Pain When Lifted
Pain, Swelling In Area Around Cyst
Symptoms of confirmed infected sebaceous cyst? Cytology revealed clear asperated fluid with no mast cells 3 weeks ago. Maggie is eating and drinking normally. She hasn't acted unconcerned of the cyst until about 3-4 days ago and started licking it. Originally it was the size of a pea but now the size of a nickel. There was a tiny bit of blood from the needle stick aspiration which I wiped away with water on cotton without any pain. It is now a bloody, large, form area with significant pain when touched. I It is located at top, outside front leg. an emergency vet concluded it was definitely mast cell by looking from across the room without further examination. Maggie has had 3 surgeries for removal of tumor and surrounding area including defined borders. I am familiar with the presentation of small mast cell tumors and this does not have the same appearance. There is obvious infection . Emergency vet agreed but on aspiration she reported no but could be in withdrawn bloody fluid. She saw no mast cells and concluded a few cells may, or might not, be sarcoma. I suggested the infected area has accessed to which she reluctantly agreed. Maggie was discharged with antibiotic, tramadol, and gabapentin with instructions for immediate follow up with regular vet. Can a diagnosed benign sebaceous cyst become a malignant sarcoma in the matter of 3 weeks? Maggie is a 13 year old Jack Russell in otherwise excellent health.

Aug. 19, 2018


Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM

1 Recommendations

I don't think that a mast cell can be diagnosed from across a room, and infection can cause significant changes to cell structure and appearance. It makes sense to me to give the medications as directed, see if the antibiotic helps the situation, and follow up with your veterinarian. It is possible that it has become more serious, but not as likely as it is that is has become infected.

Aug. 19, 2018

please excuse annoying autocorrect in original post.

Aug. 19, 2018

Maggie's Owner

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american eskimo husky

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lilly

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13 Years

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2 found this helpful

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2 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Balls Like Marbles That Move
I have a 13 year old american eskimo husky that has tumors or cysts all over her belly near her nipples they move like marbles and are not attached to the skin since they move. what is it and she has about 15 or so through her belly area. I never noticed until now. I am very concerned considering her age and know they only live until about 13 to 15 years. She stays inside mostly and doesn't seem to want to go out. I know the age is getting to her. What can I do and what can I expect?

July 13, 2018

2 Recommendations

Any lumps or bumps found around the mammary glands are concerning and should be checked by your Veterinarian as soon as possible; the fact they are moveable means that they have a poor blood supply and are not stuck to any underlying tissue, however I cannot give you any specifics without examining them myself and possibly (if deemed safe to do so) take a fine needle aspirate. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM

July 14, 2018

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Average Cost

$650

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