Morris J. Mammary tumours in the cat: size matters, so early intervention saves lives.
J Feline Med Surg 2013;
15:391-400. [PMID:
23603502 DOI:
10.1177/1098612x13483237]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE
Mammary tumours are among the most common neoplasms in both cats and dogs, but the prevalence of malignant histological types is far higher in cats (ratio of malignant:benign is at least 4:1).
CLINICAL CHALLENGES
The more aggressive nature of mammary neoplasia in cats poses challenges for management. Prognosis is affected by tumour size and, therefore, early recognition and treatment of mammary tumours is paramount. Although the primary tumour can be excised surgically, no studies have shown that chemotherapy significantly extends survival time; hence, metastatic spread remains an important clinical problem.
PATIENT GROUP
Mammary tumours usually affect older female cats, mainly entire females. Siamese and Oriental breeds may be predisposed. Male cats can develop mammary neoplasia, but this is rare.
EVIDENCE BASE
This review summarises the current literature relating to aetiology, pathology, presentation, diagnosis, staging, treatment and prognosis of feline mammary tumours.
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