My dog has a lump, needle aspiration failed. Is biopsy next?

Question

My dog has developed a lump on her rib cage. I went to vet Saturday morning and the tried needle aspiration and could get anything out. Could it still possibly be lipoma even tho they couldn't get anything with needle? She wants to have her go to a specialist to get a biospy. Is this the next step? Thank you for help.. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 5 years and 1 month old | 60 lbs

Dr. B. DVM, DACVIM (Oncology) · Accepted Answer

Needle aspiration of lipomas typically yields identifiable fat so i agree with your family vet that it is concerning to not have any material recovered with the needle aspirate. We always start with needle aspiration as it is non invasive with quick results but some masses are harder to diagnose with this test. This typically occurs if the mass is firmer in nature. Going to see a specialist can be helpful as we can sometimes use other techniques such as ultrasound to obtain samples with needle aspiration to try to avoid biopsy. But ultimately biopsy may be necessary for some masses. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

My dog has a lump, needle aspiration failed. Is biopsy next?

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