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Histiocytoma
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I have a 1 1/2 yr old mix dog that i noticed the other day has what my vet believes a histiocytoma in her left ear flap. The Vet said that we can surgically remove it or wait and see what it does. It does not seem to bother her at all , but it looks nasty. The vet gave me some anitbiotics and topical ointment to put on it. I have been reading that this will most likely go away on it's own in a couple of months. I am having an issue with deciding if i should just let it go and see what it does or should i get it surgically removed. Do these tumors go away on their own? and if i do wait to see if it goes on its own does she need to be on anitbiotics and ointment the whole time? I do not want to leave her at the vet if i don't have to (we both have separation anxiety). Please let me know what you recommend for this. i just want to do what is best for my girl.. Thank you.
We do not have to wait for Heaven, to be surrounded by hope, love, and joyfulness. It is here on Earth and has four legs!
Dr. Teresa J Burks 26 weeks ago
Histiocytomas are in general benign tumors seen in young dogs. They will look worse, than better, than worse, than go away on their own. I prefer to perform a fine needle aspirate and send it to a reference lab to be sure it is a histiocytoma. Histiocytomas and Mast Cell tumors can look very similar to the naked eye. Where as Histiocytomas are benign, Mast Cell Tumors can be very aggressive. I do know one veterinarian that has had a patient with a histiocytoma on the ear that did turn malignant, although that is not usually the case. In general, antibiotics and topical medications are not necessary for treatment of Histiocytomas. However, it is not unusual for a secondary infection to develop. An anti-histamine may be more effective in reducing clinical signs. I would avoid the use of steroids in the event that it is a Mast Cell Tumor not a Histiocytoma.
Histiocytoma: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=1676
Mast Cell Tumor: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=1600
Good luck!
Dr. Teresa J Burks
Member of and Certified by The International Veterinary Chiropractic Association
Member of and Certification Pending by the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society
316-250-3250
