When a pet gets diagnosed with cancer, it can be devastating. After being diagnosed with cancer it can still be difficult to know how far cancer has progressed. Staging is a process where vets can assess how far your pet’s cancer has progressed in their system. This then allows vets to effectively determine options for treatment for your pet. If you notice any mass lesions on your pet’s body, you should get it check in your local vets in Durham right away.
Staging typically involves a thorough physical examination of your pet to make sure there are no other lesions around the body. Also, vets will examine your pet’s lymph node and make sure they aren’t infected or enlarged. The staging process will require x-rays, ultrasound, and even MRI scans to ensure a thorough examination.
Other techniques used in the staging process are a biopsy and Fine needle aspirate. Fine needle aspirate is usually done when vets first discover the mass lesion. It involves using a syringe with a fine needle to suck out cells to analyse. When vets believe that a fine needle aspirate is not enough to be certain, they will use a biopsy to analyse deeper into the lesion. The biopsy takes a larger chunk of the lesion for analysis rather than just a small amount in a syringe. Through the larger chunk of tissue, they are able to look at the different layers to obtain more information.
Not all cancer is terminal and there are many treatments available to help cure your pet. With an early detection of your pet’s cancer, there will be a higher chance of success from the treatment. Vets are able to provide affordable treatment when needed. Don’t risk your pet’s life; get an examination as soon as possible.