Canine Cutaneous Mast Cell Tumours*

Canine Cutaneous Mast Cell Tumours

Mast cell tumours are the most common canine cutaneous tumour. They can appear similar to many other masses however some may fluctuate in size due to histamine release from malignant mast cells. Mast cell tumours are readily diagnosed on cytology with tumour grade and other prognostic factors determined on histopathology following incisional biopsy or excision of the mass. The majority of mast cell tumours can be treated with curative intent surgery. A subgroup of tumours will, however, show aggressive clinical behaviour typically with metastasis to lymph nodes followed by liver and spleen. Combinations of surgery and chemotherapy or tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy (+/- radiation therapy) may be necessary to prolong survival in these patients.