Mast Cell Tumors, Canine - contd.
Multiple factors determine the prognosis for dogs with mast cell tumors. Dogs with rapidly growing tumors have a poorer prognosis than dogs with slow-growing masses. Animals with MCT-associated systemic signs+ loss of appetite, vomiting, dark, tarry stools, gastrointestinal ulcers+ have a poorer prognosis. Location of the tumor also has an impact on prognosis. Mast cell tumors in the inguinal and perineal areas appear to be more aggressive than mast cell tumors at other locations. Well-differentiated tumors tend to have a better prognosis than undifferentiated tumors. Prognosis is better if the tumor is in an early, localized clinical stage, rather than in an advanced stage where the tumor cells have spread. Dogs with tumors recurring after local surgical excision generally have a poorer prognosis. Breed also may determine prognosis; MCTs in boxers tend to be less aggressive than in other breeds.
Early detection and aggressive treatment of mast cell tumors may result in a complete cure in dogs. Even dogs with multiple mast cell tumors, or with recurrent mast cell tumors in different regions of the body, may have a good, long-term prognosis if treated early and aggressively.
