Mast Cell Tumors
Mast cells are a normal part of the inflammatory response.
Serotonin and histamine are released from mast cells in response to
an allergic reaction. Mast cells are important to the animal's
immune system but can become very harmful when unregulated.
What causes mast cell tumors?
The cause of a mast cell tumor is unknown; however, breed
disposition, chronic inflammation and viruses may be contributing
factors.
Where are they found?
Mast cell tumors develop in the skin and subcutaneous tissues
(under the skin). They are usually well defined, raised masses that
can be hairless or ulcerated. Mast cell tumors can resemble a
lipoma (fatty tumor). Pet owners may not always discover the tumor
since the intestines, liver, spleen, and bone marrow are also areas
that a mast cell tumor may be growing.
If a tumor is found during a physical examination...
The veterinarian will feel for other masses and check the lymph
nodes for enlargement. A fine needle aspirate will be performed. A
needle is inserted into the growth and cells are removed. The
sample is examined under a microscope for mast cells, eosinophils
and fibroblasts. In some cases, a biopsy will be sent to a veterinary
pathologist for a definitive diagnosis.
Will my dog or cat show any signs?
When an animal has mast cell tumors that has metastasized
(spread within the body) there will probably be signs of decreased
appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, pain, and lethargy.
What breeds are predisposed to mast cell tumors?
The Boxer, English Bulldog, and Boston Terrier are at an especially
high risk. Also at higher than average risk are the Shar pei, Labrador
Retriever, Golden Retriever, Schnauzer, and Cocker Spaniel.
Treatment Options
**It is important for a veterinarian to check any lump or
mysterious growth that you find on your pet.**
If you have any questions regarding any tumor on your
dog, call your veterinarian and make an appointment.
More information:
http://www.vetsurgerycentral.com/mct.htm
http://www.kateconnick.com/library/mastcelltumor.html
http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/deptsOncology/owners/mastCell.aspx
Disclaimer: Vista Animal Hospital makes sincere efforts to ensure the
accuracy of information posted on this website. VAH cannot and will
not be held responsible or liable for errors, inaccuracies or improper
use of information by the reader. Readers who rely on the
information contained on this web site or on other web sites
accessed from this one do so at their own risk and are advised to
consult with their veterinarian before acting on it.
*For More Information Please Contact Your Vet!*
Mast cells are a normal part of the inflammatory response.
Serotonin and histamine are released from mast cells in response to
an allergic reaction. Mast cells are important to the animal's
immune system but can become very harmful when unregulated.
What causes mast cell tumors?
The cause of a mast cell tumor is unknown; however, breed
disposition, chronic inflammation and viruses may be contributing
factors.
Where are they found?
Mast cell tumors develop in the skin and subcutaneous tissues
(under the skin). They are usually well defined, raised masses that
can be hairless or ulcerated. Mast cell tumors can resemble a
lipoma (fatty tumor). Pet owners may not always discover the tumor
since the intestines, liver, spleen, and bone marrow are also areas
that a mast cell tumor may be growing.
If a tumor is found during a physical examination...
The veterinarian will feel for other masses and check the lymph
nodes for enlargement. A fine needle aspirate will be performed. A
needle is inserted into the growth and cells are removed. The
sample is examined under a microscope for mast cells, eosinophils
and fibroblasts. In some cases, a biopsy will be sent to a veterinary
pathologist for a definitive diagnosis.
Will my dog or cat show any signs?
When an animal has mast cell tumors that has metastasized
(spread within the body) there will probably be signs of decreased
appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, pain, and lethargy.
What breeds are predisposed to mast cell tumors?
The Boxer, English Bulldog, and Boston Terrier are at an especially
high risk. Also at higher than average risk are the Shar pei, Labrador
Retriever, Golden Retriever, Schnauzer, and Cocker Spaniel.
Treatment Options
- Surgery - surgical removal is the primary treatment for
canine mast cell tumors. However, tumors may recur. The
doctor will remove a large margin of skin surrounding the
mast cell tumor to ensure that all the malignant cells have
been removed. Tumors are sent to a veterinary pathologist to
diagnose the grade of the tumor (level of maligancy), stage
of cancer, and if the entire tumor was successfully removed. - Chemotherapeutic Drugs - Mast cell tumors can respond to
high doses of anti-inflammatory drugs (steriods). They are
used to produce partial or complete remission in dogs.
However, they can have serious side effects that need to be
considered before treating the patient. - Radiation - Radiation therapy alone or in combination with
other treatments have been used to treat tumors that cannot
be surgically removed. Treatment is required over 3-4 weeks.
Side effects, cost, and the pet's quality of life are all factors to
consider before treatment.
**It is important for a veterinarian to check any lump or
mysterious growth that you find on your pet.**
If you have any questions regarding any tumor on your
dog, call your veterinarian and make an appointment.
More information:
http://www.vetsurgerycentral.com/mct.htm
http://www.kateconnick.com/library/mastcelltumor.html
http://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/deptsOncology/owners/mastCell.aspx
Disclaimer: Vista Animal Hospital makes sincere efforts to ensure the
accuracy of information posted on this website. VAH cannot and will
not be held responsible or liable for errors, inaccuracies or improper
use of information by the reader. Readers who rely on the
information contained on this web site or on other web sites
accessed from this one do so at their own risk and are advised to
consult with their veterinarian before acting on it.
*For More Information Please Contact Your Vet!*
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