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Diagnosing Cancer

Cancer diagnosis is a process that confirms if cancer is present, whether it is benign or malignant and, if malignant, how aggressive it is. The process can involve any of the following steps:

10 common diagnostic steps1

  1. Full examination – anesthesia may be required
  2. Blood tests and urinalysis
  3. X-rays (bones and lungs)
  4. Ultrasound
  5. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
  6. Fluid biopsy – fine-needle withdrawal of fluids and lab work (cytology)
  7. Solid biopsy – solid-tissue removal and lab work (histopathology)
  8. Tissue stain
  9. Exploratory surgery
  10. Staging – determining the size of the tumor, its primary site and if it has spread

During the diagnostic process, your veterinarian will be better able to determine the most effective treatment program. At this time, your veterinarian also may involve or refer you to a veterinarian who specializes in oncology.

1Diagnostics Methods in Cancer. Available at: http://petcancervet.co.uk/diagnostics.htm.
Accessed October 17, 2011.

More Info 1

Why does diagnosis take so long?

It’s difficult to be patient when the process involves the life of a loved one. But proper clinical diagnosis will determine the most effective treatment for local and distant cancer and may save your dog from being subjected to treatments that aren’t needed.

2

Questions to ask about your dog’s diagnosis.*

*Where to begin… Colorado State University Animal Center. Available at: http://www.csuanimalcancercenter.org/
questions-to-discuss.
Accessed October 17, 2011.

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What is ‘oncology’?

Oncology is a medical field that specializes in cancer detection and treatment. Veterinarians can become board-certified in either medical oncology or radiation oncology by completing a residency and passing several certifying exams.