vetinfo4dogs.com


How do Vets Diagnose Sarcoma in Dogs

The veterinarian diagnoses sarcoma in dogs with a physical examination, a blood test, a urinalysis, or a biopsy. 15% of skin cancers in dogs are caused by soft tissue sarcomas (STSs). STSs are firm masses found on limbs, trunk or oral cavity of affected dogs. Therefore, it is necessary to keep yourself alert to such lumps or swellings on the dog's body.

Common Sarcoma Tumors in Dogs

Fibrosarcoma, hemangiopericytoma and liposarcoma are some types of STS tumors found in dogs. Some other types of skin cancer are sebaceous adenomas, which affect the oil glands of the dog's skin, and melanomas, which affect the skin pigments. Male dogs are also prone to synovial sarcomas.

Diagnosing Sarcoma

Before diagnosis, the veterinarian studies the histologic grade, origin, size and site of the fibrosarcoma tumor. While biopsy evaluates the histopathological results, aspiration (testing the fluid in the tumor) analyses the composition of tumor cells. The veterinarian also depends on biochemical test of blood serum, X-ray, CT scan or MRI, which will provide further information regarding the extent of the disease.

White dogs and those dogs that stay outside in the bright sun for long hours come under the high-risk category. However, as soon as you notice any swelling, pain or loss of appetite in your dog, it is important to take the dog to the veterinarian immediately for proper diagnosis.

 

also see Cutaneous Lymphoma in Dogs Explained

also see When Should Liver Tumors in Dogs Be Removed?

also see Symptoms of Canine Melanoma

also see Entropion and Disorders of Dogs Eyelids