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Identifying Mast Cell Tumors in Dogs: 7 Visible Signs

Dogs > Cancer > Identifying Mast Cell Tumors in Dogs: 7 Visible Signs

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Mast cell tumors are a common skin cancer in dogs of all breeds and ages. If caught early, some mast tumors can be removed easily. Early diagnosis is essential, however, so look out for these signs on your dog.

Visible Signs of Mast Cell Tumors

Lump on or under the skin, particularly on the trunk, genitals and limbs, but possibly anywhere on the body as single or multiple bumps, though they are usually solitary
Swelling and itching at lump site
Lump gets swollen or grows in size
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Diarrhea
Bloody stool

The main sign of mast cell tumors are bumps on the skin which can be pink or red, and hairless. Mast cell tumors can also spread to the gastrointestinal tract, bone marrow, spleen, lymph nodes and liver. Bring your dog to the vet once tumors on the skin can be seen. The vet will take a biopsy of the lump and look for mast cells. If it is still in the early stages the tumor may be removed easily with surgery and is unlikely to recur. Chemotherapy and radiation treatment are also options for higher grade tumors.

also see Dogs and Tumors: 4 Early Detection Tips

also see Symptoms of Canine Melanoma

also see My Dog Has Blood in His Stool - What Next?

also see Mast Cell Tumors: Dogs Most Affected

also see Melanoma and Melanocytoma

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also see Photo Gallery - Mast Cell Tumors