Cat has enlarged lymph nodes in neck and legs. Biopsy or blood test?

Question

Hi there, just wondering what enlarged lymph nodes in 3 y.o. cat in neck and both back legs could mean. My vet wants to remove a node to biopsy but couldn't a blood test be run first to find out if there is an infection and what it could be? The nodes in his legs have been large since November last year, and first vet opinion was that it was nothing to worry about. Just wondering what I should do. Thanks. Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 3 years and 4 months old | 5.9 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

I would definitely have a biopsy done on Bosley's lymph nodes. but I'm not sure why a blood test wasn't run first. In my opinion, that would be a logical step, but because I can't see him in person, the vet treating him would be the best to make the diagnostic test decisions. The vet may be concerned about the possibility of cancer such as lymphoma since this has been a long time for a lymph node to be enlarged due to infection. In addition, with an infection, you would expect the lymph node enlargement to be localized, not in both the neck and back legs. If he had a systemic infection causing multiple lymph nodes throughout his body to be enlarged, I would expect to see physical symptoms of the infection. . While cancer is not common in young cats, it can happen. I would speak to your vet to see if a blood test can be done first, or at least ask their reasoning as to why they want to do the biopsy. I hope this helps!

Cat has enlarged lymph nodes in neck and legs. Biopsy or blood test?

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