Autologous immunotherapy for periocular and oral cavity papillomatosis in a dog

Abstract

Papillomaviruses induce epithelial hyperplasia and exophytic warts in dogs. In young immunocompetent animals, lesions are typically self‐limiting and regress spontaneously; however, persistent infections may rarely be associated with malignant transformation. An 18‐month‐old male beagle presented with rapidly developing papillomatous lesions involving the periocular region of the right eye and tongue. The main medial canthus mass was surgically debulked. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry supported a diagnosis of papillomavirus‐associated papilloma. A formalin‐inactivated autologous vaccine combined with a non‐specific immunostimulant (Zylexis) was administered weekly for 4 weeks. Progressive regression of residual lesions was observed, with complete clinical resolution by Day 28. There was no recurrence during the 18‐month follow‐up period. This case describes a potential adjunctive immunotherapeutic approach that may promote early regression of the canine papillomavirus and may warrant further evaluation in controlled clinical studies.