[Intraosseous epidermoid cysts of the toe phalanx in dogs]

Out of 1057 amputated canine toes with tumours, tumour-like or other lesions, 17 cases were histopathologically diagnosed as epidermoid cysts of the terminal phalanx (EP). They were accompanied by osteolysis, reactive bone formation and chronic inflammation of phalanx 3. Extension of reactive changes to the phalangeal joint and phalanx 2 was less frequent. Various breeds were involved. There was no breed predisposition. The average age was 10.8 years; the male-female ratio 2.4:1. Nine EP were located on the forelimbs, 4 on the hindlimbs. In 4 cases location was unknown. Toes 4 and 5 were most frequently affected. A traumatic origin is suspected.