## Overview A keratoma is a benign tumor of keratin-producing cells within the hoof capsule. Although most keratomas occur in the hoof wall or sole, rare lesions can involve the coronary band or extend in a manner that affects the cannon region externally. They produce pressure necrosis of the underlying coffin bone and recurrent abscesses or lameness. Note: the term is sometimes loosely confused with cannon keratosis (stud crud), which is a completely different skin condition. ## Causes The etiology is unknown. Chronic irritation, trauma, or inflammation of the germinal epithelium is suspected. ## Diagnosis Lameness, recurrent hoof abscesses, and distortion of the white line or hoof wall are typical. Radiographs show a well-defined area of bone lysis. Definitive diagnosis requires histopathology after surgical removal. ## Treatment Surgical excision of the keratoma and affected hoof wall is the treatment of choice when lameness or recurrent infection is present. The defect is protected while the hoof regrows. ## Recovery and Prognosis Prognosis is good after complete removal. Recurrence is uncommon if the entire lesion is excised. Hoof wall regrowth takes many months. ## Prevention No specific prevention is known.
intermittent or persistent lameness; recurrent hoof abscesses; distortion of the white line or hoof wall; radiographic bone lysis
## Overview A keratoma is a benign tumor of keratin-producing cells within the hoof capsule. Although most keratomas occur in the hoof wall or sole, rare lesions can involve the coronary band or extend in a manner that affects the cannon region externally. They produce pressure necrosis of the underlying coffin bone and recurrent abscesses or lameness. Note: the term is sometimes loosely confused with cannon keratosis (stud crud), which is a completely different skin condition. ## Causes The etiology is unknown. Chronic irritation, trauma, or inflammation of the germinal epithelium is suspected. ## Diagnosis Lameness, recurrent hoof abscesses, and distortion of the white line or hoof wall are typical. Radiographs show a well-defined area of bone lysis. Definitive diagnosis requires histopathology after surgical removal. ## Treatment Surgical excision of the keratoma and affected hoof wall is the treatment of choice when lameness or recurrent infection is present. The defect is protected while the hoof regrows. ## Recovery and Prognosis Prognosis is good after complete removal. Recurrence is uncommon if the entire lesion is excised. Hoof wall regrowth takes many months. ## Prevention No specific prevention is known.
intermittent or persistent lameness; recurrent hoof abscesses; distortion of the white line or hoof wall; radiographic bone lysis