Mast Cell Tumour on Ear

[j8kat]

I just got the news that I was dreading - the little lump that seemed completely indicative of a histiocytoma is in fact mast cell. Taya has had the bump on her ear for a couple of months now and our vet told us to keep a very close eye on it. We did and as soon as we noticed any development, we took her in.

I am totally distraught at work right now. My little baby girl (1 1/2 years) is going to lose most of her ear on Monday. I feel like I am being really vain about it, but mast cells are so invasive and I am stressed over future prognosis. We won't know for one to three weeks after the surgery what grade the tumour is or what her prognosis is. I am really scared! I love her so much and she is so young to be going through this.

Anyone out there who can give me any advice on what to expect post surgery - that would be so appreciated. Please send healing vibes her way.

Jenn, Taya & Mateus

 

[dharmadoodle]

Sending lots of (((healing vibes))) your way.

Our old dog had to have an eye out once - he still looked adorable to us.

Good luck. x.

 

[Poohsmom]

Jenn,I'm so sorry about the news on Taya! I don't have any advice to offer but know that I'm sending lots and lots of positive thoughts for you and sweet Taya. Lots of speedy healing vibes are coming her way too lovicon.

The wait for test results seems to drag on forever but don't forget that we are all here for you and Taya!!

Sue and the kids,Pooh,Bownser,Dozer & Cissy
Buddy & Dusty,romping at the bridge

 

[crowpete]

I am very sorry. I know easier said then done but lets think positive (or I will for you). Sending you lots of strength and many hugs. Keep us posted! And no matter what she will be BEAUTIFUL!!!!

 

[magsp]

My Boston Terrier was diagnosed with a Grade II mast cell tumor in his groin with dirty margins after surgery when he was just 1 year old. Because of the dirty margins and the anatomic location (groin), we opted for radiation therapy every day (5 days/week) for a month. We are now over 2 years post-treatment and he is doing just fine (knock on wood!). My 3 year old pug also had one removed from her shoulder area, but with clean margins. She is also a little over two years post surgery and she is fine (again -- knock on wood!).

The most important things for you to find out from you vet are:
1. The grading of the tumor (1 is best, 3 is worst)
2. The staging of the tumor (has it spread anywhere -- like to lymph nodes, liver, spleen, etc.)
3. Did they get clean margins after surgery. I would think with is being on the ear that they will be able to get those clean margins.

For small grade 1 and 2 mct's with clean margins, usually surgery is the only thing you'll need to do. You then just need to keep a close eye on your dog to check to see if the tumor regrows at the original site or if any new tumors pop up.

Good luck to you. There are ALOT of people on this board who, unfortunately, have had experience with mct's. You should be able to get alot of good information.

 

[j8kat]

Yes, thank God for Boxer World as there is so much information on Mast Cell Tumours already! We won't have to worry about regrowth in the original spot as they are proposing on cutting off most of her ear!

We were told that radiation could be an option if we were to make the journey to another city (about 2 1/2 hours), but our vet said it was super expensive. Honestly I would rather do that then have her lose her ear, but just to be safe and healthy, we are going to have it removed.

Just an update - we have moved the surgery from Monday to Friday, so that we can spend the weekend with her and be by her side while she recuperates.

Thanks for your feedback and your thoughts. This place is my support system!

Jenn, Taya & Mateus

 

[Austin's Mom]

Austin had a grade 2 taken off his front leg over 3 years ago. The most important thing is to get clean margins, that why they take so much around the area off. MCT's are not a death sentence for them, they suck but it could be much worse. Aus didn't really seem bothered by it after surgery, he pretty much slept the rest of the day and didn't seem to be in any pain. He was able to jump on and off the bed even after.

Good luck, we'll be keeping Taya in our prayers.

 

[Elyse]

Jenn, I am sorry I don't have any advice for you but I just wanted to lend some support and send tons of <<<<positive vibes>>>> to Taya. I can imagine you must be so worried. Hang in there!! (((hugs)))