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Hello my dog developed what I thought was a skin tag about 8 months ago on his elbow. It has got much larger and is inflamed because he continues to lick it. I'm so worried. Does this look malignant?

Hello my dog developed what I thought was a skin tag about 8 months ago on his elbow. It has got much larger and is inflamed because he continues to lick it. I'm so worried. Does this look malignant?

Updated On September 23rd, 2020

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 9 years and 1 month old | 55 lbs

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

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Sam is at an age where a lump could be malignant, and I don't like the way this looks in your picture. I cannot diagnose malignancy from a picture, however. Any suspicious lumps should be examined by the vet. The vet can perform a test called a fine needle aspirate on it. To do this, the vet sticks a small needle into the lump to get a sample of its cells, and examines the cells on a slide under a microscope. It's usually painless to the animal, and relatively quick to perform. Once the cause of the lump is diagnosed, the vet can discuss treatment options if needed. Give his vet a call in the morning to make him an appointment. Best of luck.

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