Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Mast cell tumors in cats - symptoms and treatment options
By Henry, Carolyn & Herrera, Chamisa·Published in Journal of feline medicine and surgery·2013·University of Missouri, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Mast cell tumors in cats: clinical update and possible new treatment avenues.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A cat with a mast cell tumor (a type of skin or internal tumor) may show symptoms like swelling or lumps on the skin, or even issues with the spleen or intestines. Treatment options can vary widely based on the tumor's location and type, making it tricky for vets to predict outcomes. Recently, new medications called receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors have been introduced, offering hope for better treatment options. While the prognosis can be confusing, many cases can be managed effectively by general veterinarians without needing a specialist.
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Abstract
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE: Feline mast cell tumors (MCTs) are frequently encountered in general practice. MCTs are the most common splenic tumor, second most common skin tumor and third most common intestinal tumor in cats. Treatment and prognosis can vary dramatically with location and histologic classification. CLINICAL CHALLENGES: While a cytologic or histologic diagnosis is often easy to obtain, the various histologic classifications, lack of a relevant grading scheme, and disparity in behavior depending on anatomic location make prognostication for cases of feline MCTs confusing. This is quite different from canine MCTs, where there is an established grading system which correlates clinically with prognosis and an accepted standard of care. AUDIENCE: Due to its prevalence, general practitioners encounter MCTs regularly. In many instances, referral for diagnosis and treatment is not necessary. EVIDENCE BASE: Historically, there has been limited clinical evidence upon which to determine optimal treatment of MCTs in cats. Most recommendations are based on limited case reports or retrospective studies. With the recent introduction of receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors to the veterinary market, there has been new research on the use of these drugs in cats, and new treatment options are on the horizon.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23254240/