We saw a different vet than our normal vet because she was off today. He examined the tumor and aspirated it. Mom pretty much thought it was mast cell even though it looked very different than the tumors Quincy had.
He said that the tumor didn't appear to be attached to anything like an organ which is good news. But it's pretty large and in a strange spot meaning that getting clean margins will be a challenge. You want to remove tissue surrounding the tumor to make sure to get all the cancer.
We don't know if it has spread to her lymph nodes or not, or spread in other places in her body.
She was pretty perky at the vet, a change from her behavior at the house and in the car.
Since our regular vet was out, we will be talking to her tomorrow about surgery. She knows Isabelle better than any vet. Since Isabelle is well into her senior years and already has a breathing problem, surgery is riskier than usual for her.
Unfortunately, this isn't one of those tumors you can leave alone. Because of where it is, basically in the space between where her back leg meets her body, it just being there causes pain. Mast cell tumors release histamine when they are irritated (like being poked or having pressure applied) which can make the dog feel bad. Since Sunday, Isabelle has been feeling bad. It's hard to get comfortable for her.
The plan for now are pain medications, Benadryl to fight the histamine, antibiotic and steroids. The vet is hoping that the steroid and Benadryl will shrink the tumor some. Mom MacGyvered together a bandage from Tena pads and tape to keep the tumor covered. If not, the blood matted the fur on her leg and tummy. She walks a little funnier than usual but that's likely the tumor's fault.
The most important thing is Isabelle's comfort and quality of life. Surgery isn't worth the risk and pain if it has spread already. We'll know more tomorrow. In the meantime, Isabelle has had a burger and a ton of her Pumpkin Kisses and lots of pain meds. She's still eating like a champ.
Sending lotsa POTP.
ReplyDeleteSending lots of love and prayers. We know you will do what is best for Isabelle
ReplyDeletelove
Bailey, Hazel, Greta & Mom
Sending hugs and prayers....
ReplyDeleteSweet and sassy Isabelle, we are keeping you and your mom in our prayers. Sending lots of love too.
ReplyDeleteChristy
Please delete my last comment, a link was attached by accident.
ReplyDeleteWe have your back sweet Isabelle. We are sending healing Frenchie vibes
Lily & Edward
What a sweet innocent little face. Times like these is hard on the heart in many ways. We are sending all our love and prayers to momma and Isabelle.
ReplyDeleteHugs
Stella Rose, Margaret Mae and Angus McConnell
I am very sorry to hear this bad news however I do think you have a good chance of having caught it before it has spread. The oncologist I saw when Tubby had mast cell told me that they very rarely spread to organs in pugs and usually the pug can live a long time even if you dont remove it. Of couse with Issy being in pain that makes the removal part different. we are seinding good vibes
ReplyDeleteretro rover
Crap! Anxious to hear what your primary Vet says! I know you will do everything right in caring for Isabelle, Ellyzabethe!!
ReplyDeleteLove, Gampy