Prevalence of Skin Tumors Managed Surgically in Dogs in Benin City, Edo State

Cutaneous neoplasms in dogs represent a significant proportion of surgical caseloads at small animal veterinary practices in Nigeria's urban centers. This study determines the prevalence and histopathological characteristics of skin tumors managed surgically in dogs at veterinary clinics in Benin City, Edo State, within the South South geopolitical zone. A prospective study was conducted from March 2022 to February 2024, enrolling 74 dogs with visible skin or subcutaneous masses confirmed as neoplastic following excision and histopathological examination. Data on breed, age, sex, tumor location, surgical margins, and recurrence rate were recorded. Histopathological diagnosis revealed mast cell tumors as the most common neoplasm, accounting for 31% of all excised masses. Lipomas, sebaceous adenomas, and histiocytomas were also frequently diagnosed. Rottweilers and Boerboels had the highest breed-specific prevalence of malignant tumors. Dogs aged six years and above constituted 63% of neoplastic cases. Complete surgical excision with adequate margins was achieved in 71% of cases, and recurrence within six months was documented in 18% of incompletely excised malignant tumors. Owners were often unaware of tumor malignancy potential until histopathological results were disclosed. These findings highlight the need for routine histopathological submission following tumor excision and owner education on early detection of skin masses in Benin City's companion animal population. Keywords: canine skin tumors, mast cell tumor, surgical excision, Benin City, veterinary oncology.