Canine mast cell tumours (MCTs): old opinions and new research (abstract)

Authors: Stedman NL, Munday JS
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 53, Issue 1, pp 93, Feb 2005
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Companion animal, Dog
Subject Terms: Integument/skin/wool/hair/fur/feather, Neoplasia, Oncology, Research/development
Article class: Abstract

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Abstract: The MCT is the most common potentially-malignant skin neoplasm of dogs. Recent clinical studies of MCTs were reviewed and compared with established literature regarding this type of tumour. It would appear that canine MCTs are associated with a better prognosis than previously reported. Histological grading is the most accurate predictor of prognosis, however, studies revealed significant variation between pathologists grading tumours. Within the older literature, surgical margins of 3 cm were recommended, whereas in newer studies 2 cm was usually suggested to be adequate. Additionally, <20% of MCTs recurred even when complete excision could not be confirmed histologically. Recent studies did not confirm that MCTs from the perineal and inguinal areas were more aggressive. It appears most dogs that develop Grades I and II MCTs can be cured surgically and are unlikely to die of MCT-associated disease.

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