Disclaimer: The information contained here is intended solely for the general information of the reader. It is not intended to diagnose health problems or to take the place of professional medical care. The information contained herein is neither intended to dictate what constitutes reasonable, appropriate or best care for any given health issue, nor is it intended to be used as a substitute for the independent judgment of a veterinarian for any given health issue.
You will see this disclaimer at the bottom of all my post. Obviously I always want you to consult with you veterinarian about any and all of your pets needs. This blog should be fun and entertaining but not replace your professional. The opinions stated in this blog, though supported by medical data, journal articles and my professional experience are only one opinion on a wide variety of topics. I feel that medicine is truly an art and there is not a single answer or cure in any situation. Just as each pet is unique and different, so to is their medical journey.
I hope to have a series of what is your diagnosis blogs. They will be multiple entries or part series. I welcome your comments and questions and will try to respond accordingly. The names and pictures used will have had owner approval or been changed, any coincidence in relation to your own pet is only a coincidence. They may represent several cases combined for better reading. I think we can all learn best from a case base approach!
Case #1-- The Lumpy Lab Mix
The appointment is for checking a lump. Patient is a ten year old lab mix, named Terra. Terra is current on her vaccines, dewormer and flea preventative. Bloodwork was done in the last six months, and was normal. She takes no medications besides her monthly flea and internal parasite control. Per owner she has been happy and healthy lately. Maybe a little slower, but it is winter and she is showing her age a bit more. No change in eating and drinking.
She is a perfect body condition at 33 lbs, and no change from her last visit. Her color is pink, and moist. She has minor dental disease and staining to her back teeth. Her heart and chest sound normal with the stethoscope. Her lymph-nodes all feel normal. Her abdomen palpates normal. Besides the lump or growth on her thigh you don't feel anything else on her, but do notice several scars. She is nervous but, friendly and wants to hide between her owners legs.
She has a soft lump or mass on her left thigh. It is irregular shape but about 1-3 cm. The owner noticed it about two weeks ago when petting her. It is not painful, and can be moved under the skin (we often call this a subcutaneous mass, meaning under the skin (dermis) in the layer before muscle. Terra does have a history of several growths, some which have been removed and some that were determined to be benign. The owner loves her dearly, and wants to make sure this one isn't cancer though it just feels like fat.
What should you do first?
Are there any questions that should be asked of the owner?
What would be the next testing that might help in this case?
I try to say we have enough pets, and then I see one of these adorable little kitten in the clinic and I am a pile of love and desire. Nothing will make my resolve fall apart more than a sleeping kitten or puppy.
