Gecko Conjunctivitis

Finding an abnormal lump or mass on your gecko is a serious concern. While not all growths are malignant, a tumor in a reptile can grow rapidly and threaten vital organs. Neoplasia (the technical term for abnormal cell growth) is increasingly common in older geckos and requires immediate, specialized veterinary evaluation. Because prompt diagnosis and surgical removal offer the best prognosis, any suspicious growth should be checked without delay.

An abnormal lump or tumor is a critical sign that requires prompt veterinary attention.
These growths can be benign (harmless) or malignant (cancerous) and may affect internal organs or the skin.
The most common types of masses in geckos are lipomas (fatty growths), fibromas, and various cancers.

Why Does My Gecko Develop Abnormal Growths?

The exact cause of cell division abnormalities that lead to a tumor is often unknown, but contributing factors include genetics, chronic inflammation and environmental factors. Long-term exposure to certain carcinogens in the environment, prolonged ultraviolet (UV) light exposure (or lack thereof, impacting Vitamin D metabolism) and chronic infections are thought to play a role. Older geckos, particularly Leopard and Crested Geckos, are statistically more likely to develop both internal and external growths.

Types of Significant Gecko Tumors

Abnormal growths are classified by the type of tissue they originate from, which is vital for predicting behavior (benign vs. malignant):

Cutaneous & Subcutaneous Growths

Lipomas

Benign masses composed of fat tissue. They are usually soft, movable, and grow slowly. Common in older, overweight Leopard Geckos.

Fibromas

Growths originating from connective tissue. Fibromas are benign; Fibrosarcomas are malignant and grow aggressively, often recurring after removal.

Internal/Visceral Tumors

Hepatocellular Carcinoma

A malignant tumor originating in the liver. It often presents with severe non-specific signs of illness, weight loss, and yellow discoloration (jaundice).

Renal Carcinoma

Tumors originating in the kidney. These often cause signs of chronic kidney failure, like severe lethargy and dehydration.

Symptoms of a Gecko Tumor

Symptoms vary drastically based on the location. Growths on the skin are obvious, but internal growths present vague, systemic signs:

Visible Lump or Swelling

A firm, localized mass felt or seen on the body, limbs, tail, or head. Tumors near the eyes or mouth can interfere with sight and feeding.

Abdominal Swelling

A firm, abnormal distention of the belly, often non-symmetrical, indicating a large internal tumor on the liver, kidney, or gut.

Lethargy and Weakness

The gecko is spending less time moving, seeking heat, or hunting, indicating general sickness or pain.

Weight Loss (Cachexia)

Severe, progressive thinning of the body, especially if the mass is internal and interfering with digestion or metabolism.

Difficulty Defecating

Straining or inability to pass stool if the growth is pressing on the rectum or cloaca.

Loss of Appetite (Anorexia)

Complete refusal of food, often associated with pain or organ dysfunction caused by the growth.

Prevention & Gecko Care

Optimal Husbandry

Ensure a balanced, high-quality diet, appropriate temperature gradient and proper UV lighting (if species requires it) to maintain strong metabolic function.

Clean Environment

Keep the enclosure scrupulously clean to minimize chronic inflammation and exposure to environmental toxins.

Regular Palpation

Gently feel your gecko's body and belly once a month to detect any new, small lumps before they become large.

Weight Tracking

Monitor the gecko’s weight daily to ensure it is eating enough and not losing body mass.

Recurrence Check

Regularly check the area of the excised tumor for any signs of regrowth, which can indicate a malignant form.

Gecko Tumor FAQ

Yes. It could be an abscess (a pus pocket, often from infection), an egg, or a benign cyst. A vet needs to aspirate or biopsy it to know for sure.

For benign, localized growths, yes. For aggressive, malignant internal tumors, removal offers the best prognosis but may not guarantee the growth will not return.

Reptile anesthesia and surgery are highly specialized due to their unique physiology. Expertise is required to safely manage the tiny patient's system during the procedure.

Recovery is usually quick for external tumors. Internal surgery requires intensive post-operative care and a longer recovery period.

Yes. Internal growths can often be confused with eggs (if female), impaction, or severe organ enlargement caused by poor diet (e.g., gout or liver lipidosis).