Panniculitis is inflammation of fat tissue under the skin, which you will see as lumps on top of the skin. There may be one lump, or multiple lumps. They are not cancerous.
CAUSE:
Most commonly, the cause is trauma (especially when there is only one lump). This includes bite wounds from fighting.
Other rare causes may include (usually only when there are multiple lumps):
SYMPTOMS:
DIAGNOSIS:
If your veterinarian suspects panniculitis, he will perform a skin biopsy. There are a few ways to get a skin sample for study. Some options are a fine needle aspiration or a punch biopsy.
Your vet will also do tests to rule out cancer, which has some of the same symptoms as panniculitis.
TREATMENT:
If the panniculitis is caused by one of the rare non-traumatic causes, there may be a recurrence soon after removal. In that case, your veterinarian will do more tests to determine the cause.
In some recurrent cases, corticosteroids are used and are effective.
Your vet may recommend a long-term diet of low fat and vitamin E supplements.
OUTCOME:
Most patients have a full recovery; however, some pets will have recurrences.
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Long Island City Phone: 718-752-1488
FAX: 718-752-1499
Email: astoriaanimalsociety@gmail.com
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