Retrospective Study of Eyelid Masses in Dogs and Cats: Clinical Data from 2023 to 2025.

Abstract

Eyelid masses are a common ophthalmic finding in companion animals, particularly in geriatric dogs and cats. These lesions can cause ocular discomfort or functional impairment, and in some cases, may be malignant (especially in feline patients). This study aimed to retrospectively describe the clinical presentation and biological behaviour of palpebral masses over a 28-month period at a Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Clinical reports from January 2023 to April 2025 were reviewed, identifying 60 cases of canine and feline patients. Data collected included species, age, sex, breed, affected eye and eyelid, clinical signs, histopathological diagnosis (when available), treatment, and recurrence. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Most cases (90%) were observed in dogs, with only 10% affecting cats. The most animals were geriatric, and no sex predisposition was observed. In dogs, Meibomian gland epitheliomas and adenomas were the most common diagnoses, characterized by a predominance of benign behaviour. Feline cases, by contrast, predominantly malignant, with squamous cell carcinoma being the most prevalent diagnosis. Mast cell tumours were rare but showed species-specific behaviour. All three melanocytic tumours identified were benign melanocytomas; no malignant melanomas were observed. Certain lesions, such as dermoid cysts and inflammatory pseudotumours, clinically resembled neoplastic processes but were histologically benign. Recurrence was more common in cats, matching the typically more aggressive nature of feline eyelid tumours. The findings obtained in this study align with previously reported patterns of canine and feline eyelid neoplasms, confirming the benign predominance in dogs and malignant potential in cats. Early diagnosis and complete excision were associated with favourable outcomes. However, limitations such as incomplete medical records, lack of histopathological diagnostic in some cases, and possible geographic bias should be considered when interpreting the results.