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My dog has an inflamed growth on her paw. Is it a mast cell tumor?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 9 years and 3 months old | 45 lbs

Hi, Val has a secondary bacterial infection (last pic with both rear paws), cytology shows cocci and degenerating neutrophils. Most inflammation subsided after antibiotics. My question is about the enlargement and color change of skin tag (?) on the front paw (two pic are taken two years apart) The skin tag started to get inflamed when the infection 1st flared up. Could it turn into mast cell tumor? Would FNA identify it? Is it difficult to get clear margins given its location? Thank you.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on April 22nd, 2019

I do recommend to have that mass aspirated. Any red, raised lesion is suspicious for Mast Cell Tumor and an FNA is one of the best ways to identify it. That area may be difficult for complete removal without a skin flap or graft. I recommend to take the first step to have it aspirated to find out what it is and if further action is needed. I hope it’s nothing serious! Please feel free to post any additional questions.

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