Mast Cell Tumors in Labrador Retrievers
Oncological condition — Labrador Retriever — Large breed
Moderate Risk
What is Mast Cell Tumors?
Mast cell tumors (MCTs) are the most common skin tumors in dogs. They arise from mast cells — immune cells involved in allergic responses. Behavior ranges from benign (low-grade, surgically cured) to highly aggressive (high-grade, rapidly fatal). Certain breeds have dramatically elevated rates. Any skin lump on a predisposed breed should be evaluated promptly.
Symptoms of Mast Cell Tumors
- A raised, often reddened skin lump that may change size
- Lump that appears suddenly and grows quickly
- Surrounding skin may be swollen or reddened
- Ulceration or bleeding from the lump surface
- In systemic cases: vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia
How Is Mast Cell Tumors Diagnosed?
Fine needle aspirate (FNA) of the lump provides cells for cytology — a quick, minimally invasive first step that can diagnose MCT in most cases. Surgical removal with histopathology grades the tumor (Grade I–III or low/high grade) and confirms clean margins. Staging may include lymph node sampling and abdominal ultrasound.
Treatment & Cost
Surgical excision with wide margins is the primary treatment. Low-grade (Grade I–II) MCTs are frequently cured by surgery alone. High-grade or incompletely excised tumors may require radiation, chemotherapy (vinblastine + prednisone, or toceranib/Palladia for c-Kit mutations), or combination approaches.
Most pet insurance plans cover mast cell tumors treatment in full when the policy is active before diagnosis. Compare plans below.