Mast cell tumor (MCT) is the most common malignant skin tumor of dogs, and most are cured or controlled by surgery. A minority spread beyond the skin and regional node to the spleen, liver, bone marrow or blood. This disseminated, stage IV form behaves like a systemic hematopoietic cancer: survival is measured in months, histamine release causes gastric ulcers and hypotension, and the job shifts from cure to staging, control and supportive care.
Key facts
Mast cell tumor (disseminated) at a glance- Species and system: dog; hemic and lymphatic system (skin primary in most cases).
- Cause: neoplastic mast cells; activating c-KIT mutations are found in about 10–45% of cutaneous MCTs and drive aggressive behavior.
- Breeds at higher risk: Boxer, Bull Terrier, French Bulldog, Golden and Labrador Retriever, Shar-pei, Dachshund. Pugs and Boxers tend to have less aggressive tumors; Shar-peis more aggressive ones.
- Classic presentation: a large, fast-growing or recurrent skin mass with an enlarged regional node, splenomegaly, and vomiting or melena from gastric ulceration.
- Definition: WHO stage IV, meaning distant metastasis including spleen, liver, bone marrow or blood.
- Not zoonotic and not reportable.
What's inside
12 sections in the full guide- Key facts
- How the NAVLE tests this
- Cause and pathophysiology
- Clinical signs
- Diagnosis
- Differential diagnoses
- Treatment and management
- Prevention, control and public health
- Prognosis
- Quick review
- Test yourself
- References
The full guide also has 6 tables, 3 figures, 3 self-test questions and 20 references, available to NAVLE members.
Read the full study guide
The full guide is part of every NAVLE plan, with diagnosis and treatment tables, figures, a quick review and self-test questions. Start a free trial to try the question bank, or log in if you are already a member.