Dog's small growth: Is a biopsy always needed, or can it be removed?

Question

I may be over-thinking but I am so worried about my dog getting a biopsy for her growth, which is roughly about a size of half a penny. Is is unusual for the veterinarian to recommend a biopsy instead of a thin needle aspirate? I keep getting mixed results on internet search, is it because the growth is small enough for it to be 'punched out'? (how the veterinarian phrased it). Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 11 years and 4 months old | 50 lbs

Linda G, MS, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello. An actual biopsy is often much more diagnostic than an aspirate, but honestly, with a lesion this small, why not just remove the whole thing now & send it for pathology? If the entire lesion is removed, this may be curative. I would talk to your veterinarian about this option. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Dog's small growth: Is a biopsy always needed, or can it be removed?

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