Are they always cancer?

[Austin's Mom]

I'm sorry but I was very upset at the vet today and I've been doing a search on mast cell tumors. My question is are they always cancer or can they be binign? I'm sorry to be such a pain today, but I'm scared for Austin. Thanks.

 

[boxers4life2001]

I could be wrong but I think all mast cell tumors are cancer. There are different grades (grade 1 being the the least cancerous to grade 4 being the worst) Chance had a grade 1 mast cell tumor removed from the back of his leg (including lymph node) when he was around 3 years old. The first time they did not get good margines so he had to go back under for them to take more of the surrounding tissue. He is doing fine now (he is now 5 1/2 years old) and I always just check him over to make sure I do not find anymore bumps. Don't apologize, your not being a pain. You are a concerned mom who wants the best for your little guy. That's what Boxerworld is all about, asking questions, giving info, and most of all, the wonderful support we find on here from each other It's perfectly normal for you to be scared and upset, at least you got him to the doctors and after tomorrow you won't have to worry about that nasty little tumor anymore. I will keep you both in prayers and hope for a speedy recovery for Austin. Let us know how he does tomorrow, i'll be thinking about him!!!!

 

[HubbyManiago]

I dont think Mast Cells are alway cancerous, at least in humans......they have cancer potential...that is what a biopsy (sp) is for....

sending positive thoughts to you...........must be very worrysome

 

[ThatsAlly]

This website is by a vet all about feline and canine mast cell tumors.
http://www.vetmed.lsu.edu/oncology/gnmmct/index.htm

Give your boy a hug for everyone at BW :D

 

[luvfritz]

Chris - you are not a pain at all - you are a loving, concerned boxer lover. You were very brave today taking Austin to the vet - you are to be commended. I'm sure you added years to Austin's life today. I'll keep you and Austin in my prayers tomorrow, let us know as soon as you get a chance <<<hugs>>>

 

[Harlan]

I'm so sorry for what you are going through right now but you should be sooooo proud of taking care of your baby so well. You not only noticed that he had something different on his leg right away but you took him into the vet as soon as possible to have it checked out. You are a great mom and Austin is very very very lucky. You and Austin are in our prayers tonight.

 

[Storri]

Chris, Joe and I are sending you and Austin positive vibes. Joe had his removed yesterday and we are now waiting on pathology reports. Austin will be okay...hang in there and please let us know how he is doing.

Austin....we wish you a speedy recovery!

 

[Austin's Mom]

Thank you all so much. The vet said she would get to Aus as soon as possible since I was so upset. I even made her cry. I will let you all know as soon as I hear anything.
Storri-glad Joe's surgery is over and I'm praying for good results for him.

 

[Storri]

Thanks Chris!

I cried like a baby when I dropped Joe off yesterday and I could not let go of him. These are our babies! I know just how you feel :(

Hang in there...he will be home before you know it!

 

[Austin's Mom]

Geez I'm glad I'm not alone in crying like a baby! Sitting here waiting for the phone to ring is driving me CRAZY. Can time go any slower today?