My Lumps, My bumps

It is nearly inevitable that one day, as we are petting our furry companions, we will find a lump or bump. While most veterinarians are superheroes, our fingers are not microscopes! We cannot diagnose a mass based on appearance and touch.

Biopsy is required to make a definitive diagnosis of a mass.

Terms important to understand when discussing lumps and bumps with your vet:

Fine Needle Aspirate (FNA): A needle and syringe are used to poke the mass to collect a sample of cells and looked at under the microscope. Quick, relatively cheap, and no more invasive than a vaccine—this is usually the first step in making a diagnosis. The results can help with staging if the mass needs to be removed. The small sample size may limit ability to make a diagnosis. In some cases, we can be confident on diagnosis with FNA alone—but not always.

Histopathology: AKA biopsy. Microscopic examination of tissue to make a diagnosis. This is the most definitive method for diagnosis, but more invasive as it typically involves surgery. When the entire mass is removed, the tissue edges (or margins) are examined to determine if tumorous tissue was completely removed or if disease was left behind. This can help determine next steps for treatment.

Incisional biopsy: A piece of the mass is removed and submitted for histopathology, but the majority is left behind. Performed under sedation or anesthesia, usually on masses in tricky areas where simply removing the entire thing is not possible.

Excisional biopsy: The entire mass is removed and submitted for histopathology. Performed under sedation or general anesthesia.

Lumps and Bumps Red Flags

More immediate or aggressive action is needed if the mass:

Lumps and bumps cannot be diagnosed without a biopsy. If you discover a growth on your pet, consult your veterinarian about performing a biopsy.