Cutaneous and subcutaneous mass lesions in camels (Camelus dromedarius): diagnostic features and treatment outcomes

Abstract

Aim: Cutaneous and subcutaneous masses are frequently encountered in dromedary camels. However, comprehensive clinicopathological data regarding their prevalence, classification, and clinical outcomes remain limited. This study aimed to describe the diagnostic characteristics and surgical outcomes of skin masses in a hospital-presented camel cohort. Method: Between September 2023 and August 2024, a total of 213 dromedary camels were selected through purposive sampling based on the clinical presentation of various skin conditions across Riyadh, Al Qassim and Eastern provinces of Saudi Arabia. From this initial group, 92 cases of confirmed cutaneous or subcutaneous masses were included. Data on lesion type, anatomical location, age, sex, breed, and treatment outcome were collected and analyzed. Six types of skin masses were classified as neoplastic or non-neoplastic based on definitive histopathological biopsy features. Results: Non-neoplastic lesions were the most frequent (60.87%), with granulomas and chronic abscesses predominating. Neoplastic lesions accounted for 39.13% of cases, primarily consisting of fibromas (23.91%) and papillomas (10.87%). The most common anatomical sites for lesion occurrence were the hindlimbs (26.09%) and the head (17.39%). A higher frequency of lesions was observed in camels aged 5-10 years (75%) and in females (64.13%). Among breeds, Wadeh camels (56.52%) were most represented. Surgical excision resulted in complete primary recovery in 83.70% (77/92) of cases. While 16.30% (15/92) experienced postoperative complications, including edema, hemorrhage, infection, or recurrence, all were successfully managed. Conclusion: This study provides clinicians with valuable insights into the clinical frequency, diagnostic characteristics, and treatment outcomes of cutaneous and subcutaneous masses in dromedary camels. These findings establish a clinical baseline for classifying such lesions, supporting improved clinical decision-making and providing a foundation for future research in camelid medicine.