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My dog with cancer has a new red lump on his elbow. What could it be?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | neutered | 12 years and 5 months old | 80 lbs

My dog that has had cancer for a year (wasn’t supposed to live past February chemo therapy not successfull) suddenly developed this cyst on his elbow. Can you tell me what this is?

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on June 19th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Bunkers! I am glad he has done better than expected with his cancer diagnosis. I don't like the look of the red lump on his elbow. Sadly many things that are cancerous and benign can look the same. I would worry about a mast cell tumor by how red it looks but it could be many things. I would have him seen by your Vet and consider having a fine needle aspirate done of the mass to see if you can identify it. Then consider removing it. Maybe with a local block and light sedation if can be removed with minimal stress on him since he has defied the odds so far. I wish Bunkers the best!

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 30th, 2019

    I recommend to have Harley examined by his veterinarian. Skin masses can be many things but red raised masses are especially concerning for a skin cancer called a Mast Cell tumor. Your veterinarian will need to collect a sample of cell to examined under the microscope to determine what this is and if further treatment is needed. Have this checked out soon.

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 13th, 2019

    I recommend to have Mac examined by the veterinarian. Skin masses can be many things but red raised masses are especially concerning for a skin cancer called a Mast Cell tumor. Your veterinarian will need to collect a sample of cell to examine under the microscope to determine what this is and if further treatment is needed. Have this checked out soon.

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