Skin tumors are the most common tumors found in dogs. Regrettably, their fur isn’t the protection we all believed it to be. But fortunately, the disease can frequently be successfully treated if detected early. Although dogs can develop a variety of skin cancers, mast cell tumors are one of the most typical types.
The most frequent skin tumors in dogs are canine mast cell tumors (MCTs). Skin tumors make up about one-third of all canine tumors, and up to 20% of those are mast cell tumors.
Mast cell tumors are cancerous proliferations of mast cells. Mast cells are primarily found in the skin, but they are also widely distributed in other organs like the lungs and intestines. These cells help to repair tissue, create new blood vessels, and combat parasitic infection. They are also linked to allergic reactions. These processes are invaded by mast cell tumors, which also affect blood pressure, heart rate, and other functions.
MCTs can and will spread throughout the body, appearing frequently in the spleen, liver, and bone marrow despite being primarily found in the skin. MCTs are dangerous not because of the tumors themselves but because of the secondary harm that their chemical production causes.
Because it is impossible to distinguish mast cell tumors from other types of cancer without a biopsy and a pathology report, they are sometimes referred to as “the great imposters.” The size, shape, appearance, texture, and location of MCTs can vary greatly, even though they are typically found on the trunk and limbs of dogs. They are challenging to identify, and it is nearly impossible to predict their path. Additionally, they can range in threat from completely benign nodules to aggressive malignancies.
Given that MCTs are so prevalent in dogs, it’s critical for all dog owners to have a fundamental understanding of what they are and the level of risk they pose to your dog.
What is a mast cell?
Many body tissues contain a type of white blood cell called a mast cell. As allergy cells, mast cells contribute to the allergic reaction. Mast cells release chemicals and substances when exposed to allergens (substances that cause allergies), a process known as degranulation. One of these compounds is histamine. The most well-known effects of histamine are itchiness, sneezing, and runny nose and eyes, which are typical signs of allergies. However, when histamine (and the other compounds) are released in large quantities (with mass degranulation), they can have full-body effects, including the potentially fatal allergic reaction anaphylaxis. ( via Wikimedia Commons / Joel Mills (CC BY-SA 3. 0. ).
How does this cancer typically progress?
This tumors behavior is complex and depends on many factors. Typically, the pathologist can determine how aggressive the cancer is based on several factors when the tumor cells are examined under a microscope. The tumor is rated on a scale of I to III, with I being significantly less aggressive than III MCTs. A higher propensity for metastasizing (spreading to other parts of the body) is present in higher grade tumors.
Typically, the prognosis is less favorable if:
Diagnosing and Staging Canine Mast Cell Tumors
Your veterinarian can quickly diagnose a mast cell tumor using a process known as a fine needle aspirate (FNA). Your veterinarian will use a needle to suck out some of the lump’s material, which will then be placed on a slide for microscopic examination. Granules on mast cell tumors make them simple to recognize.
The tumor will then be staged, or its severity will be determined. Frequently, a biopsy is taken, and the sample is sent to a lab for a histopathology report. The pathologist will examine the biopsy under a microscope. Additionally, to assess whether the cancer has spread, lymph node aspirates, radiographs (x-rays), blood tests, and a bone marrow biopsy can be helpful for grading and choosing the best treatment plan.
FAQ
What are the final stages of mast cell tumors in dogs?
Mast cell cancer frequently has severe digestive symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain from stomach ulcers, which indicate the end of quality of life.
How long will a dog last with untreated mast cell cancer?
These tumors all have a poor prognosis, with median survival times of under 4 months. They behave aggressively and require more aggressive therapy. The median survival time of these tumors was more than 2 years overall, but some of them exhibited aggressive behavior in spite of their low grade.
Is mast cell tumor in dogs fatal?
Mast cell tumors are quite serious when identified in dogs. If left untreated, they can result in anaphylactic shock, or if they develop into a more aggressive form, they can spread and eventually kill you.
What is the survival rate for dogs with mast cell tumors?
The median survival (50% alive) following surgery is 6 months. The median survival increases to 12 months when chemotherapy is used in conjunction with surgery. When grade III tumors are only partially removed, we advise either additional surgery or radiation therapy.