Splenic Tumors

Splenic tumors can develop in both cats and dogs. Often, many patients will not have any clinical signs but if so, include vomiting, lethargy, collapse, or inappetence. Splenic masses can be both benign or malignant.

How are splenic masses diagnosed?

You, your family veterinarian, and Dr. Jha (Board certified Surgeon) will use multiple diagnostic modalities to diagnose your pet. Your primary care veterinarian will do a physical exam, bloodwork and X-rays to begin the diagnosis. An abdominal ultrasound will need to be performed to characterize the mass and samples can be taken to determine the type of mass present.

How are splenic masses treated?

Surgical treatment gives the best prognosis in pets suffering from splenic masses. At Pet Specialists of Austin we use advanced surgical equipment known as Ligasure to expeditiously remove the spleen with minimal trauma or bleeding. Pets do not need their spleen and long-term prognosis is dependent on the type of mass.

Complications

Intra-operative hemorrhage of the mass can occur. In addition, post-operative arrhythmias can occur and are monitored in hospital for the first 24-48 hours and can be treated with anti-arrhythmic medications if necessary.