Linear Granuloma

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                      General Information



Linear granulomas are narrow, elongated, reddish-yellow sores

usually found on the back of the hind legs in cats 1-5 years old.

Hair loss is generally very minor, and such sores rarely itch.

Occasionally linear granulomas are found on the lips, tongue and

hard palate.



The cause of oral linear granulomas is unknown, but granulomas

on the rear legs may result from excessive licking of the area.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Anti-inflammatory drugs or female hormones are commonly used

    to treat linear granulomas.  Response to treatment is

    unpredictable.  Cats that do not respond to anti-inflammatory

    drugs may respond nicely to hormones, and vice versa.



2.  Oral granulomas require larger drug doses and longer periods

    of treatment, and they recur more frequently than granulomas

    on other parts of the body.  Some require lifelong treatment.



        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet's sores do not heal.



    * Your pet develops new sores, or the sores spread.



    * Your pet's condition recurs after apparent recovery.