What does a basal cell tumor on a dog look like?
Basal cell tumors vary in size (from 0.1 to 4 inches in diameter), and most commonly appear as a single, firm, hairless, raised mass in the skin, often on the head, neck, or shoulders. Occasionally they may be cystic or ulcerate, and some may stick out like stalks from the skin surface.
What is the survival rate of basal cell carcinoma?
The prognosis for patients with BCC is excellent, with a 100% survival rate for cases that have not spread to other sites.
How long does it take for basal cell carcinoma to metastasize?
In one review of 170 cases, the median interval between onset of BCC and metastasis was 9 years, with a range of less than 1 year to 45 years. Despite the long period from onset to metastasis, the tumor behaves aggressively once metastasis occurs.
Is basal cell tumor benign or malignant?
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is most often a benign form of skin cancer caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. However, it’s the most frequently occurring form of all skin cancers, with more than 3 million people developing BCC in the U.S. every year. 1.
Is mast cell tumor in dogs fatal?
Mast cell tumors are quite serious when identified in dogs. If untreated they can cause anaphylactic shock or if they progress into a more aggressive form they can metastasize and ultimately lead to death.
What happens if you ignore basal cell carcinoma?
However, left untreated, BCCs can grow deeper into the skin and damage surrounding skin, tissue, and bone. Occasionally, a BCC can become aggressive, spreading to other parts of the body and even becoming life threatening.
What will happen if basal cell carcinoma is left untreated?
Untreated BCCs can become locally invasive, grow wide and deep into the skin and destroy skin, tissue and bone. The longer you wait to have a BCC treated, the more likely it is to recur, sometimes repeatedly. There are some highly unusual, aggressive cases when BCC spreads to other parts of the body.
How long can a dog live with grade 1 mast cell tumor?
These tumors share a universally bad prognosis with survival times of less than 4 months. They behave aggressively and require more aggressive therapy.