Pathologic Dog Analysis

It's not possible to detect the exact nature of a lump without analyzing the structure of the affected cells. There are many ways in which tissue samples are taken from the dog, in the case of a superficial tumor; it can be extracted by pulling it up with a very thin hollow needle: the veterinarian will put a needle in the center of the tumor and take out a few cells through suction. This test is very quick and in most cases the dog does not need to be sedated. A biopsy consists in cutting a piece of the tumor to be able to analyze the cells. This procedure can be done with a big hollow needle, which cuts off a disc of tissue, or surgically. Dogs usually always have to be sedated or anesthetized before having this done. Besides biopsies, it's possible that the veterinarian will need to do a blood analysis and X rays in order to check the dog's general health and to find out if the tumor has extended to other areas. Once the veterinarian has been able to determine, by doing the biopsy, the nature of the tumor be it benign or malignant, he will then be able to decide on the necessary treatment. It's possible that surgery will be necessary, but it is not always the only treatment against malignant tumors. There is also chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

Dog Pathology Questions and Answers
Q: As women we are always being told to check our breasts to feel for lumps etc. Can the same be applied for female dogs?
A: Yes of course as long as the dog allows you to, and even more so if the dog is 6 months or older. The beginning stage of mammary tumors feels like uneven protuberances and the consistency is firm. Detecting them early is the ideal so that they do not spread to the other breasts of the dog.