TL;DR: Irritated skin tags in high-friction areas are generally non-emergencies but require a vet visit to discuss removal and rule out more serious masses. Monitor for signs of infection like discharge or foul odor and provide a clear photo for triage.
What are skin tags and why do they get irritated?
- Skin tags, scientifically known as acrochordons, are small, benign growths of fibrous tissue that commonly appear on dogs as they age.
- When these tags are located in high-friction areas like the armpit, the constant movement of the limb against the body can cause them to become chafed, inflamed, or rubbed raw.
- This irritation can lead to redness, minor bleeding, and discomfort for your pet.
Is an irritated or raw skin tag an emergency for my dog?
- The urgency level for a raw skin tag is typically Low; while it can be painful or annoying, it is not an immediate life-threatening situation.
- Schedule a non-emergency appointment with your veterinarian to discuss removal options or topical treatments.
- Contact your vet sooner if you notice signs of a severe secondary infection, such as yellow discharge, a foul odor, or heat coming from the site.
How does taking a photo of the skin tag help the veterinary triage process?
- Taking a clear, high-resolution photo allows the veterinary team to assess the size, color, and shape of the growth, as well as the severity of the irritation.
- This visual evidence helps professionals distinguish between a simple skin tag and other more concerning masses, like mast cell tumors.
- Providing a photo ensures your dog receives the appropriate level of care and priority during the triage process.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
Secondary acanthosis nigricans can occur in any breed of dog and at any age, and is most common in breeds predisposed to conditions that result in inflammation of the axillary or inguinal region. This inflammation may be due to conformational abnormalities, obesity, endocrinopathies (e.g., hypothyroidism, hyperadrenocorticism, sex hormone abnormalities), axillary and inguinal pruritus associated with atopic dermatitis, food allergy, contact dermatitis, primary disorders of keratinization, and skin infections (e.g., staphylococcal pyoderma, Malassezia dermatitis). Clinical signs often start with increased pigmentation in the axillary and/or inguinal region, and the edges of lesions are often erythematous, which is a sign of secondary bacterial and/or yeast pyoderma. Marked pedal pruritus and facial rubbing are common with concurrent yeast and bacterial infections. Skin scrapings should be performed to exclude demodicosis, and impression smears to confirm suspected bacterial and Malassezia infections. Concurrent bacterial and yeast infections should be excluded before pursuing allergy testing.
Chapter: Dermatology
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 970)