[Dailydrool] Sebaceous Cysts

[Sandi Wittenberg]

Sebaceous cysts are very common in bassets. They are essentially clogged
hair follicles. Some bassets seem to be more prone to them than others and
some seem to develop them as they get older.  

 

The first line of defense is hands-on every day.  As my dogs spend time in
my lap, I go over every inch of their bodies with my hands.  If I feel a
little bump, I squeeze it and often can feel it burst under the skin.  This
will be reabsorbed and often does not recur.  This is at the suggestion of
my vet.

 

My second strategy is to take a "wait & see" attitude.  If the cyst doesn't
grow to be bigger than a quarter, it isn't inflamed or irritated, and it
doesn't bother the dog, then I leave it alone.  If it does increase in size,
gets inflamed or irritated, I have my vet drain aspirate it to decrease the
size.  Usually this is a temporary measure, but occasionally the cyst
disappears.  If there is any sign of infection, we try antibiotics before we
go to option 3.

 

We have had to have them surgically removed due to size and location (on the
tail, along the spine, etc.).  Some have been under general anesthesia,
usually in combination with another procedure (dental, multiple cysts etc.)
That is my last option.  I have had dogs that have had LARGE cysts cut out
and stitched up using only lidocaine.  These were older dogs who were high
surgical risks but had cysts had to be removed due to location and
condition.

 

I think that if the silver nitrate works, I would ask the vet about using a
local anesthetic (lidocaine) before doing it.  The lidocaine stings for a
moment, but then numbs the area.  

 

Just my experience and opinion.

 

Sandi Wittenberg

Red Bay Bassets

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