Lizard Skin Abscesses



Abscess (Copyright © RVC and its licensors, Sean Bobbit, Sue Evans, Andrew Devare and Claire Moore. All rights reserved)
Abscess (Copyright © RVC and its licensors, Sean Bobbit, Sue Evans, Andrew Devare and Claire Moore. All rights reserved)

Most masses in lizards are abscesses or granulomas and they are most common on the head and toes. They are often mistaken for tumours, which are rare in iguanas. Their aetiology: bacteria, fungi, foreign bodies, Metazoan parasites.

Diagnosis

  • History
  • Physical examination
  • Microscopy, culture and sensitivity – aerobic and anaerobic
  • Cytology
  • Radiography
  • Haematology and biochemistry

Treatment

  • Excision, preferably with capsule intact
  • If lanced, curettage and flushing for several days are extremely important
  • Antibiotics