A hygroma is a fluid-filled swelling surrounded by a thick layer of fibrous tissue that develops under the skin over a bony prominence, such as the elbow.
Hygromas are usually painless for dogs, but if left untreated, they can become infected. Here’s what you need to know about hygroma treatment and prevention.
Should I Worry About My Dog’s Hygroma?
According to the veterinarian Dr. Chad Maki from Irvine Pet Hospital in California, hygroma isn’t a tumor, but it’s not simply rough, calloused skin either.
“They are most commonly found on the elbow but can form on any bony area, such as on the side of the ankle (posterior joint) or on the hip,” he explains. “When they start to form, hygromas are usually small, soft, and fairly mobile. But if they grow larger, they can become unsightly or difficult to touch even though it’s usually not painful for the dog,” he adds.
How do hygromas form?
Hygroma is the result of a bony area like the elbow that is constantly in contact with hard surfaces, such as when dogs lie down and then get up on hardwood floors, tiles, and concrete outdoor areas. This repetitive “knocking” causes inflammation and leads to the body trying to protect itself by creating a “pillow” filled with fluid.
Hygroma is most common in larger, heavier dog breeds and especially in dogs that are more sedentary and spend a lot of time lying down, thereby increasing the amount of time pressure is exerted on the site of the hygroma.
Can dog hygromas be infected?
Constant pressure on the elbow can lead to cracking of the skin, allowing bacteria that normally live on the skin to penetrate the moisture film. Severe lesions can turn into sores, also known as pressure sores, and can be complicated by blocked hair follicles. At this stage, the site may be swollen and painful to the touch.
How to treat a dog’s hygroma
“Prevention and early intervention are the best approaches,” says Dr. Maki. “If a hygroma forms, early management aimed at depressurizing the site can stop it, or even reduce it to an insignificant size, or even eliminate it altogether. This can be achieved with thick bedding, reduced time spent on hard surfaces, and daily rotation of hot and cold topical applications. But be careful not to injure the skin with hot and cold therapy,” he warns.
“If the hygroma grows to an unwieldy size or becomes infected, it will need to be treated with topical and systemic anti-inflammatory and antibiotic therapies, which can be done at home.”
Dr. Maki adds that surgery is not usually recommended because it is difficult to heal and fully recover because you cannot prevent the dog from lying down on the elbow.
Currently there are elbow pads available in the market, such as Doleggs Adjustable pads, specially designed to protect hygromas by preventing further growth, pain and infection. These elbow pads are sized for dogs and can then be adjusted for a snug fit. Most dogs will easily tolerate protective elbow pads.
However, care must be taken to ensure that the proper fit is provided to prevent other unwanted pressure, ulcer development or skin irritation that can be caused by padded straps, Dr. Maki warns. out.
Prevents hygroma . growth
At-home lifestyle changes such as providing your dog with activated foam bed and many soft surfaces such as carpets and rugs can help the hygroma to form in the first place and withstand the pressure of the already formed hygroma. Padded beds give dogs, especially large breeds, a comfortable support. Interlocking foam bricks common in fitness clubs and daycare facilities can also be helpful. Consider placing them in a dedicated area in the family room where the dog often hangs out with the family.
