Different variants of canine
papillomavirus are associated with
different syndromes. These variants have been identified as
being
genetically different from each other, but it is still not clear just
how many separate variants of canine papillomavirus there actually
are.(3)
| Variants
of Canine Papillomavirus: |
Associated Syndromes: |
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Canine Oral Papillomavirus (COPV:
COPV causes Canine Oral Papillosis, the most common presentation of Papillomaviruses. It primarily affects immunosuppressed, younger dogs. It is usually characterized by multiple lesions on the lips, tongue, and inside the mouth on the cheeks, gums, and roof. The infection can also involve the nostrils and eyelids. (7) The lesions begin as small, flat, greyish papules, and can grow rapidly into larger cauliflower-like masses.
Canine
Papillomavirus Variants:
Canine exophytic cutaneous papillomatosis is thought to be caused by a virus that is different than COPV. Infection is usually associated with dogs 3-5 years of age. Lesions are grey/white solitary pedunculated masses; they usually occur on the head, or feet, and are more common in male dogs. Breeds that are found to be predisposed to this variant are Kerry Blue Terriers and Cocker Spaniels. (2) Cutaneous viral papillomas and non-viral papillomas are often difficult to distinguish from each other. (14)
Cutaneous inverted papillomas are also caused by a genetically different agent from COPV. (7) The lesions are most commonly found in dogs between 8 months and 3 years of age. They are raised hairless masses measuring 1-2cm in diameter, with depressed centers. They are typically found on the ventral abdomen, or in the inguinal region.
Pigmented epidermal plaques are another form of papillomavirus infection. They are widespread heavily pigmented (dark) thickened lesions. There appears to be a genetic predisposition for Miniature Schnauzers, Chinese Shar-Pei, and Chinese Pugs. (7)
Squamous cell carcinomas have also been found to develop in rare cases of canine papillomavirus natural infection and with vaccination with live papillomavirus vaccine. (7) Squamous cell carcinomas are cancerous growths that begin in cells called keratinocytes in the epidermis. They may appear sore and ulcerated. The tumours, like viral papillomas, are raised and cauliflower-like in appearance.(2) It is important that any mass or growth you find on your dog be examined by a veterinarian. This webpage is NOT designed as a diagnostic tool for the people and is NOT intended to replace the expertise of your veterinarian.