The Kat House

As many of you know, Cruella had a large malignant tumor removed from her abdomen last March. She also had several mast cell tumors removed from underneath her skin. She has had regular oncology visits since that time. Last November, a new mast cell tumor appeared and was removed. Since that time, there has been no sign of cancer.

Cruella spent the day in the oncology department at UT yesterday. They did the usual battery of tests – ultrasounds, x-rays, biopsies, and blood work. A new mass was discovered between Cruella’s bladder and colon. According to the doctors, there is a good chance that it’s scar tissue or a fatty tumor. They took an aspirate of the mass but the pathology report was “inconclusive” due to “low cellularity”. UT gave me two options. They could wait a month and try to get another sample of the mass, or they could perform surgery to find out what it is and attempt to remove it. The mass is approximately 4 cm in size at this point.

I don’t like either option. If the mass is malignant, one month could allow it to grow and spread to neighboring organs. At the same time, I don’t want to put Cruella through any unnecessary surgery. I called Cruella’s regular vet, Dr. Devlin, last night and discussed the situation with her. She feels that we should attempt another biopsy right away. I think I prefer that option as well. She will be discussing the matter with UT early next week and making plans for the biopsy. I’m unsure when and where it will be performed. I just hope that a good sample can be retrieved this time.

Of course I’m worried about this new challenge we have to face, but I’m trying to keep a positive attitude. It’s very possible that the mass is benign, but given Cruella’s medical history, the opposite could also be true. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers. Please also be patient when I choose to blog about treatments for acne and blackheads. I have vet bills to pay!