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Why is my iguana's leg black, white, and shedding abnormally?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My iguana has a back leg that was black but now looks like color is coming in but but scales are white and sum parts are shedding brownish

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 24th, 2017

That looks like dysecdysis (abnormal shedding). This is due to improper husbandry like not enough humidity or incorrect temperature but can also be due to infectious causes. Here is a link to an article about this issue and tips on how to remedy it. http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Reptile-Health/Diagnosing-and-Treating-Dysecdysis-aka-Retained-Shed/ If you try some home treatment and the issue does not resolve then I suggest you take Scarlett to a reptile veterinarian for a complete exam.

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