Ultrasound scan on spleen - worried (updated @post 27)

Dear All

I have not posted before but enjoy reading all the posts very regularly.

Last week when I took my 10.5yr GSD for his vacination boosters the vet felt him over and thought that there was a possibility of a tumor on his sleen as he seemed to be uncomftable with this area being touched. She recommend arranging an ultrasound scan for asap. She also said that if it is a tumor they can only test it for cancer if the spleen is removed. My GSD, Ben, has very poor hips and back legs also. He has recently lost a stone in the last six months but the vet was not too concerned as he has been at this weight before 38kg.

I dropped him in at the vets this morning and am now just waiting until they ring me this afternoon with some news.

I would be very interested in hearing anyone who has experience or knowledge of spleen tumors?

Tania

hi tania

no experience but just wanted to wish Ben good luck xx

Hi Tania as I understand it a tumour in the spleen whether malignant or not is a worry because it can rupture causing heavy blood loss. Therefore removal of the spleen before bleeding occurs is sometimes advise as the best course of action regardless of the kind of tumour . Once the spleen is removed a biopsy can be done to determine if the tumour is malignant. The problem is deciding what is the best course of action for the dog taking into account its health and age.

I am sure once the scan has been done and the nature of the mass becomes clearer your vet will explain in detail the various options open to you. If you aren't clear about anything don't be afraid to ask questions.

Wishing Ben well, keep busy and the time will pass...xx

Providing it is caught before it ruptures the tumour and spleen can be removed with little problem. Had a GSD have one removed that weighed 1.5kg and he was back on his feet acting normal within 24 hours and never had a further problem with that.

No advice, sorry, but just wanted to wish you good luck with the result of the scan. Hopefully it won't be what they think. I'm sure spleen removal is quite a common op, well it is in humans, so even if you have to go down that road, you shouldn't worry too much, at least she'll be cured if it is a tumour. Got everything crossed for you

Hi

Just heard back from the vet. I am afraid that there is a massive tumour on his spllen. She also has concerns about a tumour on the heart and wants a specialist to conduct a further scan of the heart before deciding what action to take. I can collect him tonight after 4pm and the vet is currently trying to arrange the specialist to see him asap within the next few days. Once the outcome of the heart scan is known we will be faced with making some decisions. I feel so upset

just wanted to give you a (((((hug))))) really hope that its not as bad as they think.

good luck ben.

Hi Tania, big hugs from me too..xx
Many of us know that feeling of going to the vets for a routine procedure only to have some unforeseen condition diagnoses. I think the worst part is the shock because it is so unexpected..

Thinking of you both...

Oh you must be sooooo upset you poor thing. Don't give up hope, try and stay calm until you have the results of the heart scan with the specialist. I am so, so sorry you must be in bits waiting like this. Sending some hugs from my big fluffy bear, also a gsd, and special kisses from my little gsd puppy, specially for you.xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

That is a distressing new turn of events, but nothing definite as yet so every reason to hope the heart is ok and the spleen can be removed.