Library
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Cutaneous papillomatosis is a condition in which papillomas (non-cancerous growths, or warts) develop due to papillomavirus. Commonly affected pet bird species include finches, canaries, cockatiels, budgerigars, and African gray parrots. The clinical signs and treatment for this condition are explained in this handout.
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Collecting tissue samples for cytology or histopathology allow a pathologist to often give a diagnosis of the type of mass or tumor your pet has. Samples can be obtained by fine needle aspirate or biopsy, where a piece of the mass is cut out. Based on what the mass appears like under the microscope, the pathologist can often give a prognosis of how the tumor will behave.
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Tumors (also called cancer or neoplasms) are firm tissue growths or swellings that may occur anywhere on a bird’s body, and grow out of control. Veterinary examination of any growth or lump is highly advised as tumors may grow rapidly or spread.
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Lipomas are fatty tumors that affect a variety of pet birds. These are typically benign, fatty growths found under the skin. If caught early, most lipomas respond to nutritional therapy, but they may require surgery.
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Xanthomas are discrete masses or diffuse, thickened areas of skin that are yellow-orange and dimpled in appearance. They are accumulations of fat and cholesterol and are most commonly found in cockatiels and parakeets (budgies), and especially in female birds.
