Hystiocytoma or Mast Cell!!!

[Rocco'smommy]

I just got back from taking Rocco to the vet because he has a lump on his cheek. The vet took a sample and reviewed it under the microscope but could not determine if it was a hystiocytoma or a mast cell. It has nearly tripled in size in just about 3 weeks. The vet has recommended surgically removing it, so the lab can determine what it is. This is all new to me and I don't want to put him through anything unnecessary.

 

[Scrapper's Mom]

If the doctor has any doubt, let him take it off. You don't want to fool around and guess on something that could be cancerous. Aside from that, if it's growing that fast, get rid of it.
Good luck. I know it's hard to stand by, not knowing. Just be sure your vet doesn't use Acepromazine on your dog. It can cause a fatal reaction.

 

[Rocco'smommy]

I will check on the Acepromazine, I don't recall that being on the estimate of items. Thanks for the information. I figured it would be better to just get rid of the thing. Especially since he has been scratching it, and this morning had blood all over the side of his face.... We will have it done next week, and wait to hear back from the lab as to what it is.

 

[magsp]

My dogs have had both histiocytomas and mast cell tumors. From what I understand they can tend to look alike and both can have a tendency to grow pretty quickly. However, the other thing that I have learned about mast cells is that they also tend to have a pretty characteristic appearance under the microscope. They are one of the easiest tumors to diagnose based on an aspirate of the growth. I don't want to give false hope or confidence, but I would sort of tend to believe that since the doctor couldn't really tell what it was under the microscope, you might have a better chance at it not being a mast cell tumor.

Good luck! My pups and I will be thinking of you.

 

[ROMMEL'S MOM]

I saw your post under another thread and after reading this, I tend to agree with magsp. If your vet's results are inconclusive, I would tend to think along the lines of hystiocytoma. But, of course, for your own peace of mind, have it removed.

Rommel's lump started to bleed and that's when hystiocytomas start to "break down."

Good luck and we're thinking of ya!